State authorities are alerting residents about a fraudulent text scheme circulating across Missouri. Scammers are impersonating the Missouri Department of Revenue and attempting to deceive individuals through text messages.
According to reports, these messages often claim the recipient owes money for issues such as unpaid traffic violations, outstanding toll charges, or other fines. The texts may include threatening language to pressure recipients into acting quickly.
The Missouri Department of Revenue has confirmed these texts are not legitimate. The department stated it does not initiate contact with citizens via text message to request personal information or demand payment.
Some fraudulent messages have also claimed to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles, which is part of the Missouri Department of Revenue. This tactic adds to the appearance of official communication.
Law enforcement agencies across the state are aware of the scam. The Savannah Police Department is among those warning the public about the texts.
Authorities advise anyone receiving such a text not to respond to the message, click any links, or provide any personal information. Some texts have reportedly directed recipients to third-party services like World Pay.
The Missouri Department of Public Safety issued a separate alert, emphasizing that the Missouri Department of Revenue does not operate by sending such text demands.
Citizens who receive fraudulent texts are encouraged to delete them immediately. Reporting the incidents helps law enforcement track and address the criminal activity. Reports can be made to local law enforcement agencies or the Federal Trade Commission.
The Missouri Department of Revenue is cooperating with law enforcement to mitigate the spread of these illegal communications. First Alert 4 reported a recent increase in calls regarding the phishing scheme.
