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McDowell County Sheriff's Office
Monday March 30th, 2026 :: 02:51 p.m. EDT

Advisory

DMV SCAM ALERT (Yes… another one )

DMV SCAM ALERT (Yes… another one )
We know… we just talked about a DMV scam a few days ago, and here we are again. Unfortunately, the scammers don’t take days off.

A new text message scam is circulating claiming:
Your overdue traffic fines have been flagged by our system (case number). Payment required immediately or consequences could include suspension of driving privileges, registration freeze, increased insurance premiums, and more.

The message then includes a link to a website (see photo below) that looks semi-legitimate and even allows payment — but it’s fake.
Here’s the truth:

  • The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles does NOT send text messages demanding immediate payment.
  • They will not threaten you with urgent consequences via text.
  • Official notices come by mail, not random links.
How to protect yourself:
  • Do NOT click the link.
  • Do NOT enter any personal or payment information.
  • Delete the message.
  • When in doubt, contact the DMV directly using official contact information.
Thank you McDowell County!
 

Address/Location
McDowell County Sheriff's Office
593 Spaulding Rd
Marion, NC 28752

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 828-652-2235

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