This New Michigan Text Scam is So Obvious That It’s Laughable

Another text scam is making its rounds across Michigan, and this one is so obvious that anyone who has lived in the state for a while could spot it almost immediately.

I actually received this text a couple of minutes ago, and very soon after, I noticed a post about it on Facebook from the Michigan State Police.

It's similar to the missed toll scam that's been around for a while, but there are a few key differences.

New Michigan Text Scam Claims to Be From the 'DMV'

The first dead giveaway that this is a complete scam is the fact that it comes from a very obvious out-of-country phone number. In my case, it came from a number that started with "+63", which is the country code for the Philippines. That's red flag number one.

READ MORE: Don't Fall For This Michigan Toll Road Texting Scam

The second red flag pops up as soon as you see the first five words of the text itself.  Michigan State Department of Vehicles. Oh, and they made sure to abbreviate it to "DMV" for you, as well. Fun fact, Scammy McScamerson, Michigan doesn't have a DMV. Had you done any research at all, you'd know that here in the Mitten State, we call that the Secretary of State (pronounced "Secretaria State" by many.)

New Michigan Text Scam Also Mentions Toll Booths

Red flag number three shows up when the scammers explain the actions that they will take if you don't pay them immediately. First, they say that they'll report you to the "DMV violation database," which isn't a thing.

The fourth action that they say they will take is actually the third red flag. They say they will "transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee." Wrong again, scammers, Michigan doesn't have any toll roads. There are a few bridges that charge a toll (including the Mackinac Bridge), but that's it.

Michigan State Administrative Code 15C-16.003

The text also claims that they are sending you the message "in accordance with Michigan State Administrative Code 15C-16.003." Surprise! That's also not a thing. No such code exists in the state of Michigan.

As always, it's always best to be vigilant and suspicious when you receive these types of texts. If you receive one, do not click on the link provided.

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The Michigan Secretary of State (not the DMV) will never text you to request payment.