Scam Texts Warning of Traffic Violations Target New Jersey Residents

Fake texts are hitting phones across New Jersey. They claim the Motor Vehicle Commission wants money for unpaid tickets. Don't fall for it.

These messages started popping up in May 2025, and they're back again this year. Scammers threaten to suspend your license or vehicle registration if you don't pay up fast. Some texts warn about collection agencies tacking on 35% in extra fees. One message received on Jan. 22 demanded payment by Jan. 23, 2026, and even threw in references to New Jersey statutes to make it seem real.

Watch out for numbers starting with 609 or 909 area codes. The texts contain links that lead to fake websites built to steal your credit card info and Social Security number. At first, the scammers called it "DMV" instead of "MVC," but they've gotten smarter and fixed that mistake.

"The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) has received multiple reports of a recent phishing scam impersonating the DMV for Enforcement Penalties," the NJMVC said on social media on May 29, per app.com. "These messages are designed to steal your personal and financial information."

Here's what you need to know: the NJMVC never sends random texts asking you to update your license or pay for violations. They only text about appointments you've scheduled. That's it.

The New Jersey Cybersecurity & Communications Integration Cell issued warnings after getting flooded with complaints. This trick, called SMiShing, works like email phishing but uses text messages instead. Scammers are running similar schemes pretending to be EZ-Pass, claiming you owe toll money.

Radio host EJ got one of these texts on Jan. 21. He talked about it on air with Judi Franco and Kyle Forcini. Then Kyle got the same message during the show.

Don't click on links in texts you weren't expecting. If you think there might be a real problem with your account, type the official website address into your browser yourself. Never hand over passwords, bank details, or your Social Security number to sites you can't verify. You can report these scams to the FTC, the FBI's IC3, and NJCCIC. Forward sketchy messages to 7726.

"Be vigilant when receiving unexpected communications, especially those asking you to click links or share personal details," the agency says. If you're not sure whether a message is legit, call the NJMVC and ask them.