BOISE, ID — The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has issued a warning to residents about scam text messages that falsely claim recipients owe money for unpaid traffic violations.

According to ITD, the fraudulent messages include a link and urge immediate payment to avoid consequences. Officials emphasized that these texts are not from ITD or any related agency.

“Scammers are becoming more sophisticated and using fear tactics to get people to click on fake links or provide personal information,” said Lisa McClellan, DMV Administrator.

ITD clarified that it does not send text messages regarding unpaid traffic tickets or fines, does not demand immediate payment, and will never provide suspicious links or threaten legal action or license suspension.

Residents who receive such messages are advised not to click on any links or provide personal or financial information. ITD recommends reporting the message to your mobile carrier and deleting it.

The department advises the public: “If you didn’t get it from www.dmv.idaho.gov, don’t trust it.”

For accurate information on driver’s license status or traffic violations, visit www.dmv.idaho.gov.