LEWISTON, ID — The Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a text message scam circulating in the region that falsely claims to be from the Idaho Transportation Department.
According to a Thursday press release, two individuals recently reported receiving messages stating they owed money for an unpaid traffic citation or toll. The messages threaten added points to a driver’s record or possible license suspension if payment is not made.
Deputies say the messages are fraudulent and are being sent from overseas phone numbers, specifically those beginning with the +63 country code, which is associated with the Philippines.
The scam message includes a link directing recipients to a website designed to appear legitimate. Officials warn the link is not connected to any official government service and should not be clicked.
Authorities are advising the public not to respond to the messages or engage with any links. Instead, recipients should delete the text and report suspicious activity if needed.
The sheriff’s office also noted that scams often increase around tax season, with fraud attempts aimed at collecting personal or financial information. Residents are encouraged to remain cautious when receiving unexpected messages or calls, even if they appear to come from familiar sources.
An example of the fraudulent message claims a “traffic infraction” remains unresolved and urges immediate payment to avoid penalties. Officials emphasize that legitimate agencies do not request sensitive information or payments through unsolicited text messages.
