Stone County, AR – The Stone County Sheriff’s Office is alerting residents to a growing scam targeting Arkansas drivers through fraudulent text messages that appear to come from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Victims have reported receiving alarming messages claiming they have outstanding traffic tickets and face immediate penalties if payment is not made. The message falsely references the Arkansas Administrative Code and threatens actions such as suspension of vehicle registration, loss of driving privileges, additional service fees, and even damage to credit scores.
A sample message reads:
“Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 12th… You still have an outstanding traffic ticket… Suspend your vehicle registration… Transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee… Your credit score will be affected…”
The scam message then instructs the recipient to reply and click a link, which may lead to phishing websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
Sheriff Brandon Long issued a strong warning to residents:
“Please do not fall victim to these scams. Never click links or respond to these messages,” he stated. “Legitimate agencies will not contact you via text regarding tickets, arrests, or warrants—especially not requesting payment or sensitive personal details.”
He emphasized that legitimate law enforcement or government agencies will never ask for payment via Venmo, Cash App, gift cards, or similar platforms.
If you receive a suspicious call or text demanding immediate payment, do not provide personal information or money. Instead, report the incident and verify its authenticity by contacting the Stone County Sheriff’s Office directly at (870) 269-3825.
Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and share this warning with friends and family, especially those who may be more vulnerable to digital scams.
For further updates, visit the official page of the Stone County Sheriff’s Office or call their non-emergency line.
