State DMV Warning Residents of Ongoing Text Scam
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on January 30, 2026
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is reaching out to warn citizens of text scams claiming to be DMV. West Virginia DMV will never text citizens requesting payment. Never.
Some common tactics scammers use include;
- Setting urgent deadlines (do this now, or a bad thing will happen)
- Using language, logos or imagery similar to official content - but a little different
- Using texts to request money
- Playing on fear
If it makes you feel uncomfortable or immediately concerned, the sender is a scammer, not DMV. DMV deadlines are known in advance (such as the expiration date on your license plate.) DMV will treat you like a guest, whether in person or on the phone, and will not seek to make you feel alarmed. And, again, DMV will never request a payment via text.
If you are concerned that a text you have received may be a scam, your West Virginia DMV will answer any questions you have. You are welcome to stop by your local office, or call us at (800) 642-9066.
Remember, if it is a text asking for payment, it is a scam. West Virginia DMV will never text you requesting payment.
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