CHARLESTON, WV -- The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning members of the public not to fall for a text message payment scam that is making the rounds.
People have been contacting the DMV about receiving texts threatening to take action if they don’t pay an outstanding toll account.
“State of West Virginia Department of Vehicles Final Notice: Non-Payment Will Trigger Mandatory Penalties – March 16 Enforcement,” the phony texts read.
“This notice serves as official warning that your traffic ticket remains outstanding. Under authority of West Virginia Administrative Code 15C-16.003, failure to pay in full by March 15, 2026, will lead to these mandatory actions:
1. Official reporting to the Department of Motor Vehicles violation database
2. Immediate suspension of vehicle registration on March 16
3. 30-day suspension of your driving privileges
4. Mandatory payment of 35% administrative service fee
5. Possible criminal or civil prosicution and credit score damage
Pay Now:”
The text then goes on to include a website where people can pay the fictitious bill.
But none of it is legitimate.
“It’s a scam,” said state DMV Commissioner Everett Frazier. “Do not click on it.
“The DMV does not send out texts.”