Alabama Law Enforcement Agency warns public of ‘Alabama DMV’ phishing scheme

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is encouraging people to be aware of a phishing scheme targeting Alabamians with text messages falsely claiming to be from the “Alabama Department of Vehicles (DMV).”

According to ALEA, these messages are threatening to suspend the recipients’ driving privileges and suspend vehicle registrations unless they click on a malicious link or provide personal information. Typically, these messages demand payment for non-existent traffic tickets.

State officials have emphasized that there is no such entity as the “Alabama DMV,” and driver licensing services in Alabama are handled by ALEA’s Driver License Division. Vehicle registration is handled by the Alabama Department of Revenue, and license plates are issued through local county probate offices.

“Scammers are trying to create a false sense of urgency by threatening you and your driving
privileges,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said in a statement. “We urge all Alabamians to be cautious and remember that our Agency will never contact you this way.”

According to ALEA, any unsolicited text message claiming to be ALEA or its Driver License Division should be considered suspicious and deleted.

ALEA reminds people to avoid clicking on unfamiliar links in suspicious messages and to avoid providing any personal information. Phishing attempts can be reported here.