Minnesota DVS warns drivers about scam texts and emails impersonating the DMV
Minnesota motorists have been targeted by a new wave of fraudulent text messages and emails masquerading as official notices from the “Minnesota Department of Motor Vehicles,” “DPSMN,” or “Minnesota Department of Vehicle Administration.” The state’s Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division explained that no such agencies exist—Minnesota’s motor‑vehicle operations are managed by the Driver and Vehicle Services division—and it never asks drivers to pay fines or disclose personal information via text or email.
The scam messages typically claim that recipients have outstanding penalties or unpaid traffic tickets and must click a link to settle them. Others threaten suspension of a driver’s license or urge people to update personal information. The DVS emphasises that these solicitations are fake. If you receive one of these texts or emails, do not respond or click any links. Instead, delete the message immediately. Do not provide money, credit‑card numbers, Social Security numbers, or other personal data. Responding to these fraudulent messages could expose you to identity theft or financial loss.
Drivers who are uncertain about the legitimacy of a communication should independently navigate to the official DVS website (drive.mn.gov) or call the Driver Services contact line to verify the status of their driver’s license or vehicle registration. The DVS recommends reporting scam messages as junk or spam in your email or phone messaging app. For persistent scam attempts, consumers can file complaints with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov or with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
Minnesota’s DVS continues to monitor scam trends and warns that criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in how they impersonate government agencies. The division urges residents to be sceptical of unsolicited requests for payment, to double‑check website addresses before entering any personal information, and to contact DVS directly if there is any doubt about the authenticity of a message. Staying informed and vigilant helps protect your personal data and ensures that official DVS communication channels can be trusted.
Source: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/about-dvs/fake-emails-and-texts-imitating-dvs