The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is alerting the public about scam texts circulating that claim recipients have unpaid tickets requiring immediate payment.
Nature of the Scam
These fraudulent messages typically state that the recipient owes money for a ticket and must pay immediately to avoid penalties. However, ALEA emphasizes there is no such entity as the “Alabama DMV,” a name scammers often use to appear legitimate.
Public Response and Advice
Greg Corble, a spokesperson for ALEA, reported receiving multiple calls about these scam texts on Monday alone. He advises residents to remain calm and not respond hastily to these messages. “No legitimate Alabama government agency will threaten to suspend your license over the phone or via text if you don’t pay immediately,” Corble said. He recommends pausing, verifying the message’s authenticity, and conducting research before taking action.
How to Protect Yourself
If you receive a suspicious text, ALEA encourages contacting their agency directly for verification or with any concerns. Staying vigilant and informed is the best defense against these types of scams.
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