The City of Tulsa is warning residents about a fraudulent text message scam currently circulating in the community. The scam falsely claims that recipients have unpaid traffic tickets and threatens to suspend their driving privileges if immediate payment is not made.
Numerous residents have reported receiving alarming text messages that claim to be from the "Oklahoma Department of Vehicles (DMV)," which is not a legitimate government agency. These messages often include threats of license suspension, legal action, and credit score damage unless payment is made through a suspicious link.
An example of one of the scam messages reads:
"Oklahoma Department of Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice:
Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 7. Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket…" (followed by a fraudulent link)
Some versions of the message use official-sounding language, such as "Oklahoma Administrative Code 15C-16.003," to add credibility and pressure residents into responding.
Important Reminders:
• The City of Tulsa, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS), or any legitimate government agency will never contact you via text message to demand payment or threaten license suspension.
• Do not click links or provide personal or financial information in response to unsolicited messages.
• If you receive one of these messages, do not respond. Please report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov and delete the message.
• If you're unsure about a traffic ticket or your license status, contact Oklahoma DPS directly through official channels at https://oklahoma.gov/dps.
The City of Tulsa urges residents to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited messages, especially those demanding payment or threatening legal consequences. Always verify the source through official means before taking action.