Pinellas County, FL – Local drivers are being warned of a new text message scam impersonating the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), according to a statement shared by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday.
According to the FLHSMV, the fraudulent messages claim recipients owe outstanding vehicle registration fees and threaten penalties—including license suspension or legal action—if payment is not made by January 8, 2026. The texts direct users to a fake payment portal designed to steal personal and financial information.
Officials emphasize that FLHSMV never requests or collects fees via text message. Drivers are urged not to click any links and to report suspicious messages through the Florida Attorney General’s consumer alert portal.
Law enforcement agencies across Florida are now sharing the warning to prevent further victims from falling for the scam. Residents who have already entered information or made payments are advised to contact their financial institution and file a fraud report immediately.
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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