The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has issued a warning about a scam involving text messages that falsely claim individuals owe money for motor vehicle violations. These messages urge recipients to contact the RMV immediately, but the agency clarifies it never solicits payments via text. Payments are only accepted in person or through the official RMV website.
Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie advises, “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.” She further recommends deleting such texts and informing others about this scam to protect vulnerable residents.
The fraudulent texts may include threats of “enforcement actions,” such as losing a driving license or vehicle registration if payment is not made. The RMV stresses these messages should be ignored and deleted.
Additionally, there have been reports of similar scams involving emails or texts purporting to be from MassDOT, claiming unpaid tolls. These are phishing attempts and do not originate from official sources. Such communications may contain links leading to non-official websites, and users are advised against clicking on them or providing personal information.
Residents are also cautioned against using unofficial third-party websites for RMV services. Only the official RMV website should be used for transactions like renewing licenses or registrations. On this site, checking the status of a license, registration, or title is free, as is accessing forms and changing an address on file.
The RMV actively posts warnings about scams online, including on X @MassRMV. Reports of fraudulent websites can be directed to the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office and the Federal Trade Commission. For more information on identifying and avoiding scams, individuals can contact the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation at (617) 973-8787 or toll-free in Massachusetts at (888) 283-3757.
Information from this article can be found here.
