Rhode Island residents are being warned about a new Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) scam text claiming to come from the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles that threatens license suspension and demands immediate payment.
The message, labeled as a “Mandatory Notification,” tells recipients they have unpaid traffic fines and must act quickly or face penalties. It includes a link and instructions to reply to the text to complete payment.
Red flags in the message
The text raises several warning signs that indicate it is not legitimate:
It references Ohio Administrative Code, which has no connection to Rhode Island
It threatens immediate penalties like license suspension and registration termination
It pressures recipients to act quickly with a deadline
It includes a suspicious web link that does not match an official DMV website
It asks users to reply and reopen the message to access the link
Officials say government agencies do not send texts demanding payment or threatening enforcement in this way.
What the scam claims
The message warns of several consequences if payment is not made, including:
A violation being added to a DMV record
Suspension of driving privileges
Added fees at tolls
Possible legal action and credit damage
Experts say these tactics are designed to create urgency and fear so people click the link or send money.
Scammers often impersonate trusted agencies to trick people into sharing personal or financial information. Always double-check the source of any message before taking action, especially when it involves money or urgent threats.
Anyone who may have clicked the link or entered information should monitor their accounts and consider contacting their bank.
ContributorMay 4, 20261 Mins read6 
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