Several Nebraska agencies are warning residents about a new phishing scam targeting them via text message.
The scam text message purports to be from the Nebraska DMV, claiming that the recipient has unpaid traffic fines and that several penalties are possible unless the recipient clicks a link to pay the supposed fines. In a statement, DMV Director Rhonda Lamm said “none of these text messages are legitimate,” adding that the Nebraska DMV does not send any such official notice via text message.
Many residents reported these texts to the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP), who believe the aim of this scam is most likely to steal personal or financial information. They emphasize that residents “DO NOT CLICK THE LINK.”
“Scammers can be relentless, but there’s a rule of thumb to protect yourself from this type of scam,” said NSP Superintendent Colonel Bryan Waugh. “Never click links or provide personal or financial information on unsolicited messages. If you think the message may be legitimate, go directly to the source and initiate contact yourself rather than clicking the unsolicited link.”
Additional information about spotting and reporting scams can be found at the Federal Trade Commission website. NSP encourages residents to block and report the sender of these messages, and network providers will take the proper steps from there.
Scam text examples (Photo: Nebraska State Patrol)