ADOT Issues Alert on Scam Texts Demanding Payment for Unpaid Tickets

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has issued a warning regarding fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the agency. These messages, which suggest recipients owe money for unpaid traffic tickets, are part of a scam designed to extract personal information.

ADOT clarified that real payments for tickets are handled exclusively through the Tucson City Court. The department does not send texts demanding money or collect fines via text. The fraudulent messages threaten consequences, such as a suspended license, to coerce individuals into responding.

These messages often originate from numbers with Filipino country codes. Additionally, any message that includes “DMV” is likely a scam, as ADOT operates its Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). Officials recommend avoiding any links in suspicious texts and refraining from sharing personal information.

FBI officials have labeled this type of scam as “smishing,” a blend of “phishing” and “SMS.” This method exploits unsuspecting individuals through deceptive text messages, which can lead to malware downloads or financial loss. In May 2025, Americans reported receiving an astounding 19.9 billion spam texts, averaging nearly two per person.

If you encounter a dubious message or call, it’s crucial not to interact with the content. Verify through official channels by calling the number listed on the organization’s website. Furthermore, utilize your phone’s “report junk” feature for scam texts and consider submitting a report to the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.