Charleston, W.V. — West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is reaching out to warn citizens of text scams claiming to be DMV. West Virginia DMV will never text citizens requesting payment. Never.
• Some common tactics scammers use include:
• Setting urgent deadlines (do this now, or a bad thing will happen)
• Using language, logos or imagery similar to official content – but a little different
• Using texts to request money
• Playing on fear
If it makes you feel uncomfortable or immediately concerned, the sender is a scammer, not DMV. DMV deadlines are known in advance (such as the expiration date on your license plate.) DMV will treat you like a guest, whether in person or on the phone, and will not seek to make you feel alarmed. And, again, DMV will never request a payment via text.
If you are concerned that a text you have received may be a scam, your West Virginia DMV will answer any questions you have. You are welcome to stop by your local office, or call us at (800) 642-9066.
Remember, if it is a text asking for payment, it is a scam. West Virginia DMV will never text you requesting payment.
The mission of the Division of Motor Vehicles is to provide essential motor vehicle and driver services, facilitate interstate travel by promoting reciprocity for West Virginia vehicles and drivers in other states, promote highway safety, and collect revenue for highway maintenance and construction programs. For more information and tools for motorists, visit the DMV website.
