Washington County, Tennessee — Wednesday — Authorities are warning residents about a text message scam falsely claiming unpaid traffic violations.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are sending messages that appear to come from the Tennessee Department of Motor Vehicles, telling recipients they have an outstanding traffic violation that must be paid immediately.
Officials say the message threatens consequences such as vehicle registration suspension, license suspension for 30 days, and possible prosecution if payment is not made.
The message includes a link directing recipients to a website that appears to request payment for the alleged violation.
However, the sheriff’s office says the messages show several clear warning signs of fraud, including a foreign country phone number, references to a “Tennessee Administrative Code” that officials say does not exist, and instructions to transfer money to a “toll booth.”
Authorities emphasized that legitimate traffic citations or DMV fines are not issued or collected through unsolicited text messages.
The sheriff’s office is advising residents not to click links or provide payment information if they receive similar messages.
Officials say anyone unsure whether a message is legitimate should contact local law enforcement or the appropriate government agency directly using verified contact information.
Scam attempts like this often target drivers through text messages designed to create urgency and pressure quick payment.
For commuters and young drivers who frequently receive automated alerts on their phones, officials say it is especially important to verify government messages before responding or clicking links.
The sheriff’s office encourages residents who receive suspicious texts to report them to local authorities.
