NHTSA Warns Drivers About Fake Ticket Texts Scam

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a warning about a rising scam targeting drivers in six states—Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, New York, and Texas. Fraudsters are sending fake text messages that impersonate NHTSA, demanding payment for nonexistent traffic violations. The agency confirmed it does not issue traffic tickets and will never contact drivers via text, call, or email regarding traffic violations.

Instead, traffic fines are handled exclusively by state and local authorities. The scam messages often include fake case numbers, references to fictional judges, and threats of severe consequences—such as license suspension or arrest—to pressure victims into paying. Clicking links in these messages redirects users to spoofed websites designed to steal sensitive information, including passwords, credit card details, and banking PINs.

NHTSA emphasized that scammers frequently demand payment through nontraditional methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or digital payment apps. The FBI has also issued alerts about similar phishing tactics, noting that criminals use fear and urgency to trick victims into disclosing personal data. NHTSA advised drivers to ignore suspicious messages, avoid clicking links, and report scams to local police, state consumer protection offices, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) via ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

For vehicle-related concerns, NHTSA directs drivers to verify information independently by visiting NHTSA.gov/Recalls or calling the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.