Think you missed a traffic fine? Think again.
The Maryland DMV text scam is back — and it’s tricking drivers with fake fines, legal threats, and shady payment links.
Scammers are impersonating the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)—though they mistakenly call it the “DMV”—in a wave of phishing texts designed to scare you into paying a bogus fine. One message threatens license suspension unless you act before a fake deadline.
The example to the right is one I personally received!
Why This Is a Scam
- There’s no DMV in Maryland: The agency is called the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)—a clear giveaway this message wasn’t written by anyone familiar with Maryland law.
- Fake URL: The link uses a shady-looking domain like
gzvl.cc, not an official.govsite. - Fear-based language: The message rattles off scary consequences such as license suspension, debt collection, legal action to pressure you into clicking.
- Bogus legal reference: “Maryland Code 15C-16.003” is completely made up.
- Wrong area code: The message came from a number with area code 272, which is located in northeastern Pennsylvania—not Maryland.
- Sketchy instructions: “Reply Y” and “copy the link” are phishing tactics, not real government communication methods.
How to Report It on Your Phone
- iPhone/iOS Users: Tap “Delete and Report Junk” if you see it. This not only removes the message but sends it to Apple for analysis.
- Android Users: Tap and hold the message in Messages by Google, then select “Report spam” or “Block & report spam.” This helps your phone and carrier improve scam filtering.
What to Do If You Get One
- Do not click the link. Scam sites can infect your device or steal personal data.
- Don’t reply. That only confirms your number is active.
- Forward the message to
7726(SPAM) or report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov. - Verify with the source: If you’re genuinely unsure, go directly to https://mva.maryland.gov or call the MVA—not the number in the text.
Bottom line: If it says “Maryland DMV,” it’s a scam.
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