Iowa DOT Warns of Scam Texts Demanding Fake Toll or Registration Payments

The Iowa Department of Transportation is warning residents about a text phishing scam happening across the country. The scam involves fraudulent messages that appear to be from the Iowa DOT. These texts claim the recipient has unpaid tolls or registration fees and include a link that asks for personal and financial information. The website linked in the message often mimics the look of an official Iowa DOT webpage.

These texts are fake. The Iowa DOT does not send out fee collection reminders via text. Any payment requests from the DOT will come through official channels-by mail, in-person transactions, or online transactions initiated by the customer. The DOT also does not collect tolls on any Iowa roads or bridges.

If you receive one of these texts:

• Do not click on any links or respond. Scammers count on quick reactions.

• Verify the information independently. Use trusted websites ending in ".gov" or contact state agencies directly.

• Report and delete unwanted messages. Use your phone's "report junk" feature or forward the message to 7726 (SPAM).

If you believe you've fallen victim to the scam:

For customer questions about your Iowa Motor Vehicle Division record, please contact driver.services@iowadot.us or call 515-244-8725.