The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be on the lookout for scam calls and text messages from individuals falsely claiming to represent the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
According to Sheriff Chad Burroughs, scammers are contacting people and attempting to obtain personal information or payments by claiming there is an issue with a driver’s license, vehicle registration, or other official records. In some cases, the messages threaten license suspension, arrest, or other penalties if immediate action is not taken.
Officials stress that the BMV will never send text messages requesting personal information or payment. The scam messages often include suspicious links and may use fake caller ID information to appear legitimate.
The Sheriff’s Office advises residents not to answer unknown calls, click on links in unexpected text messages, provide personal information, or send money to anyone claiming to be from the BMV. If a call or message seems suspicious, officials recommend hanging up immediately and contacting the appropriate agency using an official phone number.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam is encouraged to contact the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office. In an emergency, call 911.
