Urgent Warning: Fake DMV Texts Scam Targeting Miami-Dade Residents

Miami-Dade Residents Warned of DMV Phishing Scam Miami-Dade County, FL – Residents are urged to be cautious of a recent surge in phishing scams targeting individuals via text message. The scam, highlighted in a recent news report by NBC South Florida, involves fraudulent texts appearing to originate from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). These texts falsely claim unpaid toll fees, demanding immediate payment to avoid penalties such as license suspension. "The texts are designed to look very real," explains Darrel Fernandez, Miami-Dade County Tax Collector. "They include details that could trick unsuspecting individuals into clicking on malicious links or providing sensitive personal information." The scam texts typically include a link to a fraudulent website mimicking the official DMV site. This website is designed to collect personal data, including banking details, used for identity theft and financial fraud. Authorities emphasize that the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) would never solicit payments via text message. To protect themselves, residents are advised to exercise caution when receiving unexpected text messages demanding immediate payment. If you receive a suspicious text claiming to be from the DMV, it is recommended to immediately mark it as spam and delete it. Do not click on any links contained within the message. The Miami-Dade County Tax Collector's office urges residents to report any suspected scam attempts to the appropriate authorities. By staying vigilant and informed, residents can protect themselves from becoming victims of this type of financial crime.