Iowa DOT warns of fake text scams claiming unpaid tolls, violations

To The Press

The Iowa Department of Transportation is warning the public about fraudulent text messages claiming recipients owe unpaid tolls, registration fees or traffic violations.

The messages appear to come from the Iowa DOT or “DMV” and often link to a fake website designed to look like an official DOT page. The messages urge victims to provide personal and financial information.

“These texts are not from the Iowa DOT,” the department said Tuesday. “Do not click on the links or enter any information.”

The Iowa DOT emphasized it does not send fee collection reminders via text and never asks for private or financial information through text messages. It also does not operate any toll roads or bridges.

Similar scams have been reported in other states.

Anyone receiving such messages is advised to report and delete them using their phone’s spam-reporting tools or by forwarding the message to 7726 (SPAM). Victims can report scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov, or to local law enforcement.

Questions about Iowa Motor Vehicle Division records can be directed to driver.services@iowadot.us or 515-244-8725.