ODOT, DMV Warn Public of Text Scams
If you have received text messages saying you owe money to the Oregon Department of Transportation or DMV, it’s a scam.
Scammers across the country are sending fake texts about unpaid tolls, license suspensions, and traffic violations. The messages include a link that takes you to a fake website designed to look real to steal your personal and financial information.
According to Oregon DMV Public Information Officer Chris Crabb, “ODOT and DMV will never ask you to pay through a text message, email, phone call, or third-party website."
Scam texts can use alarming words like “urgent notice,” “violation,” or “final enforcement.” They might warn that your license or registration will be suspended or fines will increase if you do not pay immediately.
The public is reminded not to click links or reply to unexpected messages claiming to be from ODOT or DMV, and never provide personal, financial, or vehicle information to unknown texts or websites.
You can report scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) and file a report with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. You do not need to report it to ODOT or DMV. If you’re unsure whether a message is real, contact ODOT at 1-888-Ask-ODOT, or DMV at 503-945-5000. You can find more information about fraud prevention at oregondmv.com.
Posted on 4/1/26 11:15AM by Alex Bauer
