Residents across Wyoming have reported receiving unsolicited text messages claiming to be from the “Wyoming Department of Vehicles,” alleging unpaid parking or toll violations and threatening license suspension, prosecution, or credit damage, KGAB AM 650 reports.
These messages have been noted in Laramie County, Sweetwater County, Albany County, and other areas over a recent weekend, prompting official agencies to issue warnings and guidance.
The texts assert that recipients owe money for unpaid tickets—sometimes referencing toll booths, which do not exist in Wyoming—and include links or instructions to make payment. They warn of a 30-day suspension of driving privileges and unspecified legal consequences if payment is not made. In many instances, the sender’s phone number displays a foreign area code.
Official Clarifications
No “Wyoming Department of Vehicles”: The State has no agency by that name. The legitimate motor vehicle functions in Wyoming fall under the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) or local county clerk offices, and WYDOT does not use text messages to demand payment.
No Toll Roads in Wyoming: References to toll booths in these messages are baseless, as Wyoming has no toll roads or toll facilities.
Payment Methods: Legitimate state agencies do not request payments via gift cards or unverified online links sent through unsolicited texts.
Agency Responses and Advice
Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT): On its official social media channels, WYDOT highlighted that a foreign area code is a key red flag. The agency emphasized it “will never text you about stuff like this,” never refers to itself as “DMV,” and has no toll operations. WYDOT urged residents not to tap or click links in suspicious texts or emails and pointed to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit for further resources on avoiding scams.
Laramie Police Department: The Laramie PD similarly cautioned that neither law enforcement, the courts, nor WYDOT will send text messages demanding ticket payments or threatening license suspension. They advised anyone who clicked on a suspicious link and lost money to contact their non-emergency dispatch.
Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit: The office has compiled guidance on recognizing and reporting scams, encouraging Wyoming residents to verify any unusual demands by contacting relevant official agencies directly via known phone numbers or websites.
What Residents Can Do
Do Not Click Links or Respond: If you receive a text demanding payment or threatening suspension and it appears to be from a “Wyoming Department of Vehicles,” do not click any links or follow instructions in the message.
Verify via Official Channels: Contact the Wyoming Department of Transportation, your county clerk’s office, or local law enforcement using publicly listed phone numbers or official websites to confirm if any legitimate action is required.
Report the Scam: Forward or report suspicious texts to your mobile carrier (often by sending the message to 7726, “SPAM”) and to local law enforcement or the Attorney General’s office.
Monitor Financial Accounts: If you have clicked a link and provided payment or personal information, monitor your bank and credit accounts for unauthorized activity, and consider contacting your bank or credit provider immediately.
Scam tactics leveraging impersonation of government agencies are common nationwide. Wyoming motorists and residents are advised to remain vigilant, especially when messages threaten legal or financial consequences. Official communications about unpaid fines or license matters typically arrive via mail or secure, authenticated channels—not unsolicited text messages demanding immediate payment.
