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CATEGORY
TEXT
TYPE
Phishing: a message pretending to be from a government agency (in this case the Oregon DMV) to scare you into clicking a fake link and paying money.
CONTENT
“Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on Jul 2.
Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. In accordance with New Oregon Administrative Code 15C-16.003, if you do not complete payment by Jul 1, 2025, we will take the following actions:
Report to the DMV violation database
Suspend your vehicle registration starting Jul 2
Suspend driving privileges for 30 days
Transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee
You may be prosecuted and your credit score will be affected
Pay Now:
[URL Redacted]
Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes.
(Reply Y and re-open this message to click the link, or copy it to your browser.)”
HOW IT USUALLY WORKS
Hook: Fear of losing your license, being prosecuted, or damaging your credit score.
Engagement: If you click the link, attackers may:
If you click the link, attackers may:
Lead you to a fake DMV website that looks official.
Demand payment for a “fine” via credit card or bank transfer.
Collect personal information such as your driver’s license, SSN, or address.
Outcome: Victims may lose money, have their identity stolen, or both.
WHAT TO DO
Do not click the link or reply to the message.
Government agencies (like the DMV) will never demand payment via text message or use strange URLs.
If you’re unsure about a ticket, check directly with your state DMV using the official website or phone number.
Block the sender.
Delete the message after taking a screenshot (if you want to report it).
— BONUS ROUND: Reporting the Text —
Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) — this goes to your carrier.
Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Disclaimer: The information in this database is shared to help raise awareness about common scams. It is not legal, financial, or security advice, and we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Please use your own judgment and contact official authorities or service providers if you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam.
