Scammers Spread Fake California DMV Texts Threatening $160 Fees and License Suspension
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 15
Scammers Spread Fake California DMV Texts Threatening $160 Fees and License Suspension
4 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 15
$160 late-fee threats and license-suspension warnings are being used in fake California DMV traffic-ticket texts sent far beyond the state, including to people with no recent California ties.
A +63 Philippines country code, a generic "Dear Driver" greeting and a non-government link such as ca.mnvtl.life/dmv are key signs the messages are phishing attempts, not official notices.
Clicking or replying can lead victims to fake payment pages that steal card details, personal data and logins, or expose devices to malware; replying also confirms the number is active.
California-style DMV notices typically do not send final legal demands by text, and recipients are advised to avoid the link, verify directly through official DMV sites, then block and report the sender.
Are government agencies and phone carriers doing enough to stop the international flood of fraudulent traffic violation texts?
If you fall for a fake traffic ticket scam, what immediate steps must you take to protect your finances?
As AI makes fake DMV texts more convincing, what is the one red flag that technology still can't fake?