The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office has received several reports today about a scam text message (graphic included) circulating in our area involving unpaid parking citations.
The scammer claims you have an unpaid parking citation that requires IMMEDIATE ACTION for payment. Victims are then directed to scan a QR code that leads to a FAKE DMV website in New York. The website may appear legitimate at first—until you scroll to the bottom and notice the “off-looking” web address: ny.ryazt.life. This is a red flag. The official New York State DMV website is: https://dmv.ny.gov/.
The “alternative” is to appear at a court hearing in Wake County (Raleigh) District Court, with a date and time provided to you.
Failure to act or appear may result in fines, additional court costs, driver’s license or vehicle registration suspension, and more.
Know this: GOVERNMENT AGENCIES DO NOT SEND NOTICES LIKE THIS VIA TEXT OR QR CODES.
Do NOT scan, click, or provide information. Delete the message and report it.
Please share this information with your loved ones, friends and neighbors – especially our elders in the community who may not use social media.
If you have questions, contact the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office at (828) 652-2235.
