KDSN RADIO News
SCAM ALERT: Crawford County Sheriff's Office Warns of Fake DMV Text Message Scam
DENISON, Iowa — The Crawford County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about a widespread text message scam in which fraudsters are posing as the Iowa Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
According to a statement released by the Sheriff's Office, the scam involves text messages from an unusual phone number — 63-930-046-6456 — falsely claiming recipients have an outstanding traffic ticket. The message threatens license suspension, registration cancellation, and even legal action if payment is not made by June 5, 2025.
The fraudulent message reads in part:
"Iowa Department of Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 6. Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket..."
It goes on to list potential penalties, including suspension of driving privileges and a 35% service fee. The message ends with a suspicious payment link and instructions to reply or click for further action.
Authorities urge the public not to respond, click any links, or provide personal information. The Sheriff's Office advises anyone who receives such a message to report it immediately and to delete it.
Key Tips from the Sheriff's Office:
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Do not respond to suspicious texts, especially from unknown numbers.
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Do not click on links or provide payment information.
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Report scams to local law enforcement or the Iowa Attorney General’s Office.
For official communication from the Iowa DMV, always refer to the official website: iowadot.gov.
Stay alert, and protect your personal information.
