BBB shares how to identify new text scam spreading across West TN

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Better Business Bureau is warning West Tennesseans about a new text scam that’s spreading quickly.

“Most of us in West Tennessee have seen those fake toll rolls texts, but scammers aren’t of course slowing down, so they’re back with a new trick pretending to be the Tennessee DMV,” said Toddnetta Trice, communications specialist with the BBB.

You may have received a text saying that you have an outstanding traffic ticket you must pay.

This new scam is targeting consumers by portraying as a fake state agency, threatening serious consequences to pressure you into quick action.

It sends a “final notice” to residents as the Tennessee Department of Motor Vehicles.

“The real agency that handles vehicle registration and driver’s licenses is the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Scammers are using official sounding names, fake state codes to create fear and make the message sound like it’s legit but it’s not,” said Trice.

According to the BBB, this text scam has occurred in multiple counties across West Tennessee. Trice tells us that in these situations, government agencies will not reach out to you via text.

She also gives us some red flags to look out for.

“The threatening language. They want you to act urgently, like they need to be paid within the last 1 or 2 days. Referencing the law or administration codes, and messages coming from a random phone number and shortened codes, not official contacts,” said Trice.

Also be cautious if a text prompts you to reply “Y” or “Yes” or instructs you to click on links.

If you receive a DMV text, the BBB urges you to ignore it. Simply delete it and report it to their scam tracker.

For more news across the state, click here.