The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning residents about a new wave of fraudulent text messages sent by scammers pretending to represent the agency.

Officials say the DMV is aware of the latest scam attempts and is working closely with the Governor’s Office of Information Technology to stop the messages and protect residents.

According to the DMV, the scammers send texts falsely claiming that recipients have unpaid traffic tickets. The messages threaten serious consequences if payment is not sent immediately.

State officials stress that these claims are completely false and part of a scam designed to trick people into sending money or sharing personal information.

Residents who receive a suspicious text claiming to be from the DMV are urged to not click on any links, not respond to the message, and not provide personal or financial information.

The DMV encourages residents to stay alert and report suspected scams as authorities work to shut down the fraudulent activity.