Area law enforcement agencies report fake DMV text message scam

Area law enforcement agencies are reporting a scam where fake text messages claim to be from the Minnesota DMV.

The Isanti County Sheriff's Office has received numerous reports about the circulating texts, which warn recipients about outstanding traffic tickets.

The messages make threats of license suspension and legal action if payment isn't made immediately.

Mille Lacs County Sheriff Kyle Burton cautioned residents not to respond to the texts.

"Bottom line, this is just a scam," Burton said on Wednesday morning. "Don't respond to it, don't click on the link, don't give them any money or personal information."

Burton also said the Department of Public Safety is aware of the scam.

In Thursday morning's sheriff's report on KBEK, Kanabec County Sheriff Brian Smith said government agencies and law enforcement will not communicate via text.

"If you get those, it's not an official message or call. It's just not how the government operates," Smith explained.

Smith also advised residents to stay vigilant with communications they receive.

"If something doesn't seem right, there's a good chance it's not right," he said.