South Dakota DPS Warns of Fake Traffic Ticket Text Scam

(Pierre, SD) — The South Dakota Department of Public Safety says fake text messages are making the rounds, claiming people owe traffic ticket fines. The messages look like they’re from the South Dakota DMV, and use scare tactics like threats of license suspension or legal action if they aren’t paid right away. Officials say the state does not send ticket notices by text, and one should never click links, send money, or share personal info. To check the real status of any ticket, go through the Unified Judicial System or your local Clerk of Courts. Suspicious messages can be reported to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.