Surge in Scam Texts Claiming to Be from Missouri DMV or MoDOT

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Authorities are warning Missourians about a surge in fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Missouri Department of Revenue, or MoDOT.

These scam messages, part of a growing "smishing" (SMS phishing) scheme, falsely claim that you owe unpaid traffic fines, tolls, or other penalties. The texts often include threats of license suspension, prosecution, or additional fees unless you “pay now” via a link or confirm your identity by replying.

Officials say the messages may:

• Claim to be from “Missouri DMV” or “MoDOT”
• Accuse you of owing fines or toll charges
• Threaten legal action or license suspension
• Contain links or request replies like “Y” to confirm
• Originate from foreign numbers, such as those beginning with +63

What NOT to do:

• Don’t click any links
• Don’t reply to the message
• Don’t share personal details like your Social Security number, banking info, or passwords

What TO do:

• Delete the message
• Report it by forwarding the text to 7726 (SPAM)
• Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue directly via official channels at dor.mo.gov

If you’ve already clicked a suspicious link or shared personal info:

• Change your passwords immediately
• Contact your bank or credit card provider
• Enable two-factor authentication
• Report the incident to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with major credit bureaus

Stay vigilant and always verify messages directly with trusted government websites or contact lines.