The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) and state cybersecurity officials issued urgent warnings about a sophisticated text message scam targeting New Jersey residents. These fraudulent messages falsely claim to be from the NJMVC or related agencies, demanding immediate payment for alleged unpaid traffic fines or toll violations.
How the Scam Operates
Scammers send texts claiming recipients owe fines that must be paid by a specific deadline, often threatening severe consequences like suspended vehicle registration, increased toll charges, credit score damage, or prosecution. The messages frequently include official-sounding links containing terms like “ezpassnj” and “.gov” to appear legitimate. Some require recipients to reply “Y” or manually enter URLs into their browsers.
These links direct victims to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and financial information, including Social Security numbers, credit card details, and login credentials.
Official Response
The NJMVC emphasizes it never sends unsolicited text messages or emails requesting payments or personal information. The only legitimate NJMVC texts are appointment reminders. Similarly, New Jersey E-ZPass and state Judiciary agencies don’t send unsolicited payment demands via text.
Protective Actions
If you receive such messages:
- Don’t click links or reply
- Don’t provide personal information to unverified websites
- Report the message by forwarding to 7726 (SPAM) and filing complaints with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Verify concerns by visiting official NJMVC websites directly or calling published phone numbers
Warning Signs
Red flags include threatening language demanding urgent action, poor grammar, suspicious URLs, and requests for sensitive information via text.
Officials stress that legitimate agencies don’t collect fines or request sensitive information through unsolicited text messages. These are phishing attempts designed to steal personal information and money from unsuspecting residents.