Fake Texts Continue to Attempt to Mislead South Carolina Residents

June 18, 2025

The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles is aware that consumers continue to receive text messages that falsely report that the recipients have overdue traffic tickets or toll violations for which SCDMV is collecting money. These texts often threaten suspensions of privileges unless urgent payment is made.

The SCDMV reminds South Carolinians that the agency is not involved in the collection of toll fees or overdue traffic tickets nor does the agency use text messages to collect fees from customers.

The scam texts include a link that imitates the SCDMV address and webpage. The legitimate SCDMV webpage is at SCDMVOnline.com. Beware of impostors or deceptive links that attempt to divert you to other websites.

As artificial intelligence improves the abilities of scammers to imitate legitimate organizations and sources, checking webpage links closely is an important strategy that consumers can use to protect themselves, now and in the future.

Consumers should especially be wary of any message that seeks to compel urgent action to avoid a penalty. Scammers often use such wording to prompt quick cooperation before consumers' suspicions can arise. 

The SCDMV provides ample notice to customers regarding potential changes to their license or registration status, usually at least 30 days beforehand. These official notices are sent via the U.S. Postal Service.    

It's best to delete the scam text if you have received it because the link could be malicious. Spam texts also can be reported to your mobile carrier by forwarding to 7726 (SPAM).

Consumers can also report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission.

If you interacted with the scam text, it's best to monitor your bank and credit card accounts to watch for fraud.