June 7th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning members of the public not to fall for a text message payment scam that is making the rounds.

People have been contacting the DMV about receiving texts threatening to take action if they don’t pay an outstanding toll account. “West Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Final notice,” the phony texts read. “Our system shows that your toll account is still unpaid. According to West Virginia Administrative Code 15C-16.003, if you fail to pay the outstanding amount by June 5, the Department of Motor Vehicles will initiate formal enforcement proceedings starting June 6. Consequences include:

1. Violation information will be recorded in the Department of Motor Vehicles enforcement database
2. Vehicle registration is suspended
3. Driver's license is revoked for at least 30 days
4. Mandatory payment of 35% administrative service fee
5. Possible legal action and negative credit report
Pay Now:”

The text then goes on to include a website where people can pay the fictitious bill. But none of it is legitimate. “It’s a scam,” said state DMV Commissioner Everett Frazier. “Do not click on it. “The DMV does not send out texts.”