Don’t Fall For This Text Scam Sent to Mainers

If you received a text recently that appeared to be from the Maine Department of Motor Vehicles, be aware that it is a scam, and you should not click on any links contained in it.

Text sent to Most Mainers is a Scam

On June 9, 2025, a text went out to people in Maine that claimed that the Maine Department of Motor Vehicles was giving them their "final notice" and that enforcement penalties would begin on June 10. None of it is true.

One big hint that it is a scam is that the scammer claims to be with the Maine Department of Motor Vehicles. Maine does not have a "Department" of Motor Vehicles. It has a "Bureau" of Motor Vehicles.

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows got the text as well, who just so happens to be in charge of the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles. That should scream scam right there.

What Does the Text Say?

The scam text warns of unpaid fines and threats of license and registration suspension if not paid immediately. It also claims that the recipient will face a toll service referral with a 35% processing charge, legal prosecution, and credit rating damage. None of that is true. Absolutely none.

The sad part is that many Mainers may be tricked into thinking the scam is real, especially the elderly, who may not recognize a scam easily.

What If You're Not Sure if It's Real or Not?

The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles says that it will never send you a text message with information about a potential suspension or unpaid infractions. They urge you not to click links in any unsolicited texts.

If you were scammed, contact your financial institution immediately. If you are unsure if a message you have received is genuine, contact the BMV at 207-624-9000.