Nationwide DMV Text Scam Expands To Include Fake REAL ID Cancellations, Emails, and Phone Calls

Published on Monday, June 09, 2025

CRANSTON, R.I. – The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (RI DMV) is issuing an expanded warning to the public about a growing wave of fraudulent communications now targeting residents across multiple platforms, including text messages, emails, and phone calls. 

These scams, reported nationwide, falsely claim to be from the DMV and attempt to alarm recipients into sharing personal and/or financial information on fake websites through malicious links. Common claims include unpaid tolls or traffic violations, threats of license suspension, and most recently, notices that a person’s REAL ID has been canceled or flagged as fraudulent. 

RI DMV Administrator Walter “Bud” Craddock, who recently convened with administrators from the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA), stated, “Many states are now reporting a dramatic uptick in scam activity that is expanding from text messages to include fake emails and phone calls. Public awareness is the first line of defense.” 

NEW WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR Fraudulent messages may now claim: 

• Your REAL ID has been canceled or flagged as fraudulent 

• You have unpaid fines, tolls, or violations 

• Enforcement actions will occur unless payment is made immediately

• You must click a link or call a number to resolve the issue The RI DMV urges Rhode Islanders not to click on links, respond to suspicious messages, or provide personal or financial information via unsolicited text message, email, or phone call. The RI DMV does NOT send payment demands or threats via unsolicited text message, email, or phone calls. HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMS: • Do NOT click on any links or reply to suspicious text messages. • Do NOT provide personal or financial information.

• Be aware that DMV related information is sent via regular mail. 

• Report fraudulent messages to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov) or forward them to 7726 (SPAM) to notify your mobile provider. 

• Report the message to the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov. 

Rhode Island residents who have concerns about their DMV records should utilize our Online DMV Customer Portal at https://ridmvservices.ri.gov/guest-signin to view license and registration status, expiration dates, and any blocks or suspensions. 

For more Division of Motor Vehicles information, please visit www.dmv.ri.gov.

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