Lansing, MI – Michigan drivers are being warned about fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). The messages falsely demand immediate payment to avoid license suspension and legal trouble.
According to MDOT, the agency does not send out payment demands for tolls, fines, or any other fees through text messages. Officials confirmed the messages are part of a widespread scam targeting residents across the state.
The texts typically include a fake link resembling an official government website and instruct recipients to pay immediately or risk losing their driver’s license. Some also direct users to “reply Y” to reopen the message. Authorities say these tactics are designed to trick drivers into providing personal and financial information.
MDOT is urging residents to delete these messages without clicking any links. Anyone who has already submitted payment or banking details is advised to contact their financial institution immediately to prevent further fraud.
Law enforcement agencies also remind residents that legitimate government entities will never request sensitive information or payments through text messages.
Drivers who receive similar messages can report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
