Portage, IN – Local police are warning residents about a new text message scam claiming to be from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). The message, which mimics an official “Final Notice,” falsely states that recipients owe payment for an unpaid traffic violation.
According to the Portage Police Department, a resident reported the suspicious text over the weekend. The message claims action will be taken if payment isn’t made by October 27, 2025, citing fake references to the Indiana Code and listing threats such as license suspension and registration revocation.
Police confirmed the web link provided in the message is not an official government site and emphasized that the BMV does not collect payment for traffic-related fines via text or online links. Such fines are handled through the courts, not directly by the BMV.
Residents are urged to delete the message immediately and avoid clicking on any links. Anyone who provided personal or financial information should contact their bank and report the incident to local law enforcement or the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
Authorities remind Hoosiers to verify any unexpected government communications directly through official websites or phone numbers before responding.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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