FLORIDA DMV SCAM ALERT: Beware Fake Texts Threatening License Suspension Over ‘Unpaid Tickets’
Criminal Defense Lawyers at Carlson Meissner Hayslett Warn: This Fraud is Spreading Fast
Have you received a text message claiming your Florida driver’s license is about to be suspended due to an unpaid traffic ticket?
Don’t panic—and don’t click. It’s a scam.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has issued a warning that these fraudulent messages are appearing statewide, preying on unsuspecting drivers with language meant to frighten them into giving up personal information.
At Carlson Meissner Hayslett, we’re seeing more and more Floridians fall victim to phishing attempts that appear to come from the DMV or SunPass—but are actually sophisticated fraud operations. We’re here to help you understand your rights, spot the warning signs, and take action if your identity or license is at risk.
What the Fake DMV Text Scam Looks Like
The scam arrives by text message and may read something like:
“Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. If you do not complete payment within 24 hours, we will take the following actions”:
- Report to the DMV database
- Suspend your vehicle registration
- Suspend driving privileges
- Impose a 35% service fee
- Refer for prosecution and credit impact”
It then includes a link to “resolve” the ticket, usually phrased as: “Click here to avoid license suspension and further legal action.”
This link is fake. It leads to a fraudulent website built to steal your credit card, banking, or personal identity information.
Does the Florida DMV Ever Send Payment Requests by Text? No.
According to the FLHSMV:
“FLHSMV will never contact you via text message demanding payment or threatening suspension or arrest.”
They will not text you to collect payments, verify tickets, or confirm your license status. All legitimate communication comes via official mail or, in some cases, through secure email or your online FLHSMV portal.
What to Do If You Receive This Scam Text
If you receive a suspicious text regarding your Florida driver’s license or traffic violations:
- Report the scam immediately to:
- Your local law enforcement agency
- The Florida Attorney General’s Office at 866-9NO-SCAM
- File an online complaint
What Happens If You Did Click the Link?
If you accidentally clicked the link or submitted information:
- Immediately contact your bank or credit card company.
- Freeze your credit with the major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion).
- Change passwords on any affected accounts.
- File a report with identitytheft.gov and monitor your credit closely.
Contact a criminal defense lawyer at Carlson Meissner Hayslett if you suspect misuse of your information or fear you’re being investigated for fraud or non-payment.
How to Check If You Actually Owe a Ticket in Florida
If you’re unsure whether you have a legitimate unpaid traffic ticket or DMV issue, here are safe ways to find out:
- Visit the official FLHSMV site: https://www.flhsmv.gov
- Contact the clerk of court in the county where you received the citation
- Call FLHSMV customer service directly—never rely on a third-party link
What About SunPass Scams?
This isn’t limited to fake DMV texts. SunPass phishing scams are also circulating widely. These texts falsely claim you have unpaid tolls and must pay immediately to avoid penalties or suspension. They also include fraudulent links.
SunPass confirms:
“We do not text customers asking for payment or immediate action on their account. Any such message is a scam.”
If you receive one of these texts, do not respond. Instead:
- Log into your real SunPass account at sunpass.com to check your balance
- Report phishing texts to SunPass customer service
Why Scams Like These Are So Dangerous
Scammers use urgency, fear, and official-sounding language to trick victims into quick action. These scams:
- Lead to identity theft
- Drain bank accounts
- Result in false license suspensions when people don’t take real action because they thought the real notice was a scam
- Can lead to criminal investigations if your identity is used to commit fraud
- If you’re ever unsure, or you’re facing real legal trouble stemming from a missed ticket, license suspension, or ID theft—Carlson Meissner Hayslett can help.
How Carlson Meissner Hayslett Can Help
If you’ve:
- Clicked a scam link
- Been accused of driving on a suspended license
- Missed a court date due to confusion about fake tickets
Received a real citation and don’t know what to do next
Our criminal defense team is here to protect your rights.
We’ve helped thousands of Florida drivers resolve traffic and criminal charges quickly and effectively—including fighting unjust license suspensions, correcting identity errors, and clearing up criminal misunderstandings caused by fraud or misinformation.
Contact Us Today — Before a Text Scam Turns Into a Real Legal Nightmare
Carlson Meissner Hayslett has served clients across Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, and Bradenton for over 50 years. When your license, freedom, or good name is at risk, don’t guess—call us first. Schedule a Free Consultation or call us at (877) 728-9653.
