Alaska DMV issues warning about new wave of scam texts requesting payments
On August 13, 2025, the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) warned residents about a new wave of fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the DMV. These scam texts tell recipients that they owe fees or penalties and must pay immediately to avoid suspension of their license or arrest. According to the DMV, the texts use familiar terms like "driver’s license renewal" or "vehicle registration," but they are not official communications.
The scam messages usually contain a link or phone number that directs people to a fake site where personal information, credit card details or other sensitive data are requested. The DMV emphasised that it never asks for payments, personal information or verification via text message. agency issued an initial warning about fraudulent texts on June 27, 2025 and reported that another wave of scam messages appeared on August 13.
If you receive a suspicious message, do not click any links or respond. Delete the text and, if you are concerned about your license or registration status, go directly to the official Alaska DMV website (https://dmv.alaska.gov/home) or contact your local DMV office. Residents who have already provided payment or personal data should contact their financial institution and local law‑enforcement agency to report the potential fraud.
The Alaska DMV is working with law‑enforcement partners to investigate the scam and to alert the public. The agency urges Alaskans to warn friends and family, especially those who might be less familiar with digital scams, to ignore any unsolicited texts demanding payment. Official notifications from the DMV will always come from trusted channels like the official website, secure email (if you have opted in) or regular mail. They will never threaten immediate legal action or demand payment via text. Stay vigilant and protect your personal information.
Source: Alaska DMV scam alert June 27 2025 press release (updated Aug 13 2025): https://dmv.alaska.gov/home/news