The Kent Police Department is warning residents to ignore and delete scam text messages that falsely claim to be from the Washington Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Officials say several residents (including us!) have reported receiving text messages in recent days that use threatening language and claim the recipient owes a ticket or legal fine.
Police confirmed the texts are fraudulent.
“In short…it is a scam,” police said in a statement. “DO NOT REPLY to it, do not call the listed number, and you do not need to contact the Kent court. We WILL NOT send out texts to persons with threatening language to communicate when you have an overdue ticket.”
Police emphasized that the Kent Municipal Court does not send threatening text messages to notify individuals of overdue tickets or fines.
Residents who are unsure about the legitimacy of a message are advised to verify the sending number through a basic online search.
“For most scams the search will reveal that the number is not valid for the business listed in the text,” the department added.
Authorities say the scam texts may come from various phone numbers and are urging residents to remain vigilant.
They also encouraged community members to share the warning.
Scam Text
Here’s a screenshot of the scam text, courtesy Kent P.D.:
“Washington Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice:
Enforcement Penalties Begin onJune 24.
Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket.
“In accordance with New Washington Administrative Code 15C-16.003, if you do not complete payment by June 23, 2025, we will take the following actions:
“1. Report to the DMV violation database
“2. Suspend your vehicle registration starting June 24
“3. Suspend driving privileges for 30 days
“4. Transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee
“5. You may be prosecuted and your credit score will be affected“Pay Now:
“https://wsdot.com-syu.digital/pay (NOTE: This website is labeled with “Deceptive Website Warning”)
“Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes.
“(Reply Y and re-open this message to click the link, or copy it to your browser.)”
