If getting a traffic ticket from your phone sounds too convenient to be true—it probably is. (Also, who knew your unpaid fines could travel internationally before you?)
In this publication, we're uncovering a rising scam hitting Pennsylvanians right where it hurts: their inbox. Let’s dive right in.
A new text message scam impersonates the Pennsylvania DMV, claiming you owe a fine for a traffic violation—but it's all a ruse to steal your personal and financial info.
How It Works:
- You receive a text message saying it’s a “final notice” from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Motor Vehicles (aka DMV), warning you of penalties for an unpaid ticket.
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It includes a fake statute, like “15c-16.003,” and urges you to pay immediately through a suspicious link:
https://padmv.gov-wsafa.win/portal - The link leads to a scam website that mimics a government portal but uses a .win domain—definitely not a legit .gov or .pa.gov site.
- Scammers collect your personal info and banking details once you click or attempt to pay.
Who’s Targeted:
This scam is targeting Pennsylvania residents, especially those with local area codes. It exploits:
- Confusion over real agency names (like calling PennDOT the DMV)
- Urgency and fear of legal penalties
- Trust in official-looking communication
Real-Life Example:
“Cybercriminals count on confusion between state agencies and poor digital hygiene,” said Scott Davis, chairman of the Cyber Security Association of Pennsylvania.
“Know how PennDOT communicates, and never trust a message that pressures you to pay quickly or click unfamiliar links.”
The scam has been traced back to international numbers, including one based in the Philippines: +63 962 537 7419. Since April 2024, similar smishing messages have impersonated the PA Turnpike Commission and other toll authorities.
Why You Should Care:
Besides the obvious financial theft, clicking that link could also:
- Expose your device to malware
- Compromise your identity
- Open your bank account to unauthorized transactions
Even if you don’t fall for it, someone close to you might.
How to Protect Yourself:
• Ignore unknown senders. Don’t click on links from unfamiliar phone numbers—especially international ones.
• Don't trust unofficial domains. Real government websites use .gov or .pa.gov. If it ends in .win, you’re about to lose.
• Verify first. If you’re unsure, visit PennDOT’s site directly or call their official number.
• Report the scam. Mark the message as junk or phishing from your phone. You can also contact:
- Your bank (if you clicked or paid)
- Local law enforcement
- The PA Office of Attorney General
Educate others. Share warnings with friends and family, especially those less familiar with tech.
Quick Tips & Updates:
Quick Tip #1: Did you know? PennDOT doesn’t refer to itself as the DMV—and it will never send unsolicited texts demanding payment.
Pro Tip: Bookmark official websites like www.penndot.pa.gov and go there directly instead of clicking links.
Update: Smishing scams like this are popping up in multiple states, targeting residents with fake toll road and traffic notices. Stay alert across platforms, not just email.
Stay safe, stay informed.
Keywords Defined:
• Smishing – A form of phishing that uses SMS (text messaging) to trick users into giving up sensitive information.
• Phishing – A type of cyberattack where scammers pose as legitimate entities to steal personal or financial data.
• PennDOT – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the official state agency handling driver and vehicle services.
• .gov domain – A trusted domain used exclusively by U.S. government entities.
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