Southwest Louisiana residents are reporting a wave of scam emails and text messages pretending to be from the DMV, OMV, or local police. These messages claim you owe an unpaid traffic ticket and threaten suspension or fines if you don’t pay up immediately. The link provided is a trap—designed to steal your money or personal information, or even infect your device.
This is part of a growing trend in local scam activity targeting people across Lake Charles and the entire SWLA region. If you get one of these messages, here’s what to watch for and what to do next.
How the DMV Scam Works
- You receive a text or email warning that you have an unpaid ticket, or that your driver’s license will be suspended.
- The message tries to panic you with threats of late fees, extra penalties, or immediate legal action.
- It provides a link to “pay now” or “view your citation.” That link leads to a fake website that looks official but is actually built to steal your credit card info or install malware.
What scammers want: Your payment info, personal data, or a compromised device.
Real Scam Examples: What to Watch For
Example Text Message:
LA DMV: Our records show an unpaid traffic ticket linked to your license plate. Avoid late fees – pay now: http://la-dmv-payments.com Example Email: Subject: Urgent Notice – Louisiana OMV Suspension Dear Driver, A citation has been issued to your vehicle for an outstanding violation. Your driver's license will be suspended in 48 hours unless payment is received. Click here to resolve: [FAKE LINK] Failure to pay will result in additional penalties and legal action.
How to Protect Yourself
- Never click any links or reply to suspicious messages. The real Louisiana OMV does not send payment demands by text or email with clickable payment links.
- Check the status of any tickets or your license only on the official Louisiana OMV website or by calling the agency directly.
- If you’re unsure, contact your local police department or the OMV at a verified number.
- Report suspicious messages to SAFE Net SWLA, the FTC, or local law enforcement.
For more scam alerts and detailed prevention tips, check out our full SWLA Scam Awareness hub. Stay alert and share this article with neighbors—help protect our community from the latest scams.
What to Do If You Clicked a Scam Link
- Disconnect from Wi-Fi or cellular data immediately to prevent further compromise.
- Run a full scan using up-to-date antivirus or anti-malware software.
- If you entered payment or personal info, contact your bank or credit card company and monitor your accounts closely.
- Report the incident to the FTC and local authorities. Consider freezing your credit if sensitive data was exposed.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational awareness only. SWLA Photo is not affiliated with SAFE Net SWLA, the Louisiana OMV, or any government agency. Always verify information directly with official sources before taking action.
DMV Scam FAQ for Southwest Louisiana
Q: Does the Louisiana DMV or OMV ever demand payment by text or email link?
A: No. The Louisiana OMV never sends payment requests or license suspension notices by unsolicited text message or email with clickable payment links.
Q: What should I do if I get a suspicious ticket notice?
A: Don’t click any links. Always verify directly on the official Louisiana OMV website or by calling a verified number.
Q: Who should I contact if I think I’ve been scammed?
A: Contact your bank if you provided payment info, and report the scam to the FTC, SAFE Net SWLA, and your local police department.
Q: What if I already clicked the link or entered my information?
A: Disconnect your device from the internet, run antivirus software, and immediately notify your bank or credit card company. Monitor accounts for suspicious activity.