FBI Issues Urgent Warning: Delete Malicious DMV Texts Targeting Smartphones

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has raised an alarm regarding a substantial increase in malicious text messages directed at iPhone and Android users, particularly involving fraudulent communications masquerading as Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) notifications. As of June 2025, reports indicate an alarming 773% surge in these scam texts within just the first week of the month, prompting the FBI to issue a formal warning urging users to delete any suspicious messages immediately.

This recent wave of text-based scams has been attributed to cybercriminals operating from overseas, with the FBI confirming that these attacks are linked to organized groups in China. According to David Palmer, Supervisory Special Agent at the FBI in Tennessee, these scammers have transitioned from previous scams involving unpaid tolls to this more sophisticated DMV-related scheme. “These texts can install malware on your device, stealing sensitive information or accessing payment details,” Palmer stated in an official release dated June 13, 2025.

The nature of these texts often involves threats of license suspensions or fines for unspecified traffic violations, creating a sense of urgency that encourages recipients to click on malicious links. These links typically lead to phishing sites designed to harvest personal and financial information. Guardio, a cybersecurity firm monitoring these trends, has noted that attackers generate new domains for almost every scam text, frequently using formats that include state names alongside generic domains, and sometimes even incorporating '.gov' in the URL to enhance legitimacy.

The potential scope of this scam is extensive, with estimates suggesting that a single threat actor could send out up to two million malicious messages daily, potentially affecting around 60 million individuals monthly. “This level of operation means that every person in the U.S. could be targeted at least twice each year,” Guardio warns.

In response to the growing threat, various state officials and law enforcement agencies have echoed the FBI’s advice. Senator Tina Smith from Minnesota has called for federal intervention, emphasizing that these scams pose a significant risk to the financial security of citizens. “This is beyond a mere nuisance,” Smith remarked, citing concerns about the psychological impact on victims who may be uncertain about the authenticity of such messages.

Arizona’s Attorney General, Kris Mayes, has similarly alerted residents, advising them to remain vigilant against these impersonation tactics. “Scammers aim to not only steal money but also personal information, including vital identification details,” Mayes noted in a public statement.

Oregon’s DMV has also issued warnings, advising drivers that any messages purporting to be from them regarding traffic offenses are fraudulent. Chris Crabb, a spokesperson for the Oregon DMV, reiterated the importance of not engaging with any suspicious texts and recommended that individuals contact their DMV through official channels for verification.

As these fraudulent activities continue to escalate, experts urge users to exercise caution. The consensus among cybersecurity professionals is clear: delete any unsolicited messages and refrain from clicking on unfamiliar links. The FBI and associated agencies continue to monitor the situation closely, working to mitigate the risks associated with these scams.

In summary, the rise of these DMV-related scam texts highlights the critical need for public awareness and vigilance in the face of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. As technology evolves, so too does the cunning of cybercriminals, necessitating a proactive approach to digital security among smartphone users nationwide.