GEORGIA () – Georgia law enforcement authorities are warning residents of text messages claiming to be from a false state department.

The message shown in the scam is below:

Georgia State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on May 29. Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. In accordance with Georgia State Administrative Code 15C-16.003, if you do not complete payment by May 28, 2025, we will take the following actions:

• 1. Report to the DMV violation database
• 2. Suspend your vehicle registration starting May 28
• 3. Suspend driving privileges for 30 days
• 4. Transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee
• 5. You may be prosecuted and your credit score will be affected

Pay Now: Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes. (Reply Y and re-open this message to click the link, or copy it to your browser.)

Law enforcement says to not click the link or respond to this message.

“This message is FAKE and designed to scare you into giving up your personal or financial information,” the Washington County Sheriff’s Office said in an alert. “Georgia doesn’t have a “State Department of Motor Vehicles” – it’s called the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). Real agencies do not send threats via random text messages.”

“This is NOT how unpaid citations work and this is a scam,” the Grovetown Police Department said. “If you are ever unsure, reach out to your local law enforcement for guidance.”

If you’re ever unsure about a ticket or your license status, go directly to the official site: