MA RMV Warns Of Scam Texts Asking For Money

MASSACHUSETTS — The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles is warning the public about a text scam that asks for payment.

The scam involves texts claiming a person owes money for outstanding motor vehicle violations and that the individual should contact the RMV immediately. The RMV will never text residents looking for payment.

The text scam notifies individuals in part, “Final Notice: Unpaid Traffic Violation – Payment Required...” It also threatens penalties, such as the loss of a driving license or vehicle registration, if the payment is not made.

The RMV urges customers not to click links in texts and to delete texts that request payment. The agency said it only accepts payments in person or on the official RMV website: www.mass.gov/RMV.

“Scam artists often create urgency to manipulate members of the public into paying fees which are fraudulent and we urge everyone to be vigilant when they receive a communication stating they owe money,” said Colleen Ogilvie, the Registrar of Motor Vehicles in Massachusetts. “Please delete texts stating you owe money and alert friends and family members to this scam so our most vulnerable residents can avoid being taken advantage of.”

If you have questions about identifying and avoiding scams, you can contact the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation by calling the Consumer Hotline at (617) 973-8787 or toll-free in Massachusetts at (888) 283-3757.

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