MASON COUNTY, Wash. — The Mason County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public of a scam that is circulating the area.
Someone is sending scam text messages claiming to be from the Washington State “Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)” about unpaid traffic tickets. According to the sheriff’s office, the messages threaten penalties and direct recipients to click a suspicious link for payment.
These messages are fraudulent. Do not click the link.
If you believe you have been a victim of this scam, please contact the Mason County Sheriff’s Office.
What to watch for
There is no DMV in Washington State. Driver licensing and vehicle services are handled by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). Messages referencing a “Washington DMV” are a clear red flag.
Here are some other things to watch for:
- Messages demanding immediate payment
- Suspicious or non-government web links
- Threats of license suspension or legal action
How to Report & Block Scam Texts
iPhone (Apple Devices):
Open the message and tap “Report Junk”, then select “Delete and Report Junk”
If that option is not available, tap the contact → Info → Block Caller
You can also forward the message to 7726 (SPAM)
Android Devices:
Open the message → tap the three dots (menu) → select “Report spam”
Or press and hold the message → choose Block/Report
You can also forward the message to 7726 (SPAM)
Remember:
- Do NOT click unknown links
- Do NOT provide personal or financial information
- Government agencies will not request payment through random text messages