Don’t Be Fooled by Fake DMV Traffic Ticket Texts

Scammers are getting bold. One of the newest tricks is sending fake text messages that claim to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). These messages threaten traffic ticket penalties, license suspension, and even damage to your credit score if you don’t pay right away.

A Real Example

Here’s a text message a Maine resident received:

“Maine State Department of Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice… Pay Now: https://bmv.payofnl.cc/pay …” 

At first glance, it looks official — but it’s not. Let’s break down why.

Red Flags in This Scam

🚩 Fake web address. The link (bmv.payofnl.cc) is not an official government domain. Real DMV/BMV websites always end in .gov.

🚩 Scare tactics. The message threatens suspension of your registration, suspension of driving privileges, and even credit score impact. Real DMVs do not send threats by text.

🚩 Unusual instructions. “Reply with Y” or “paste this link into Safari” are classic scam tricks.

🚩 Urgency and deadlines. Scammers pressure you with fake cutoff dates to make you act without thinking.

What Scammers Want

By clicking the link and “paying”:

• Your credit card or banking information goes directly to scammers.

• You may open your device to malware.

• You could become a target for ongoing fraud.

How to Stay Safe

✅ Know the rules. Government agencies like the DMV or IRS never ask for payments via text or random links.

✅ Check the website. Real DMV/BMV websites always end in .gov (e.g., maine.gov).

✅ Call directly. If you think you might owe a ticket, call your state’s DMV/BMV directly using the official phone number on their website.

✅ Don’t click. Delete the message and block the number.

The Bottom Line

Scammers are counting on fear to make you click before you think. Don’t let them win. If you get a “traffic ticket” text, remember: the DMV will never demand payment by text message. 

💡 PCRescue subscribers can rest easier — we help monitor and protect against scams like these, keeping your devices and data safe. 

👉 Want extra protection from online scams? Try a PCRescue Service Plan today and let us keep an eye out for you.