Finance Department warns public of DMV phishing text scam

Published on February 01, 2026

LĪHU‘E – The Finance Department is warning the public about an ongoing phishing scam involving fraudulent text messages that falsely claim to be from the Hawaiʻi Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The scam messages are sent from an unknown phone number and typically begin with language such as “Important: Your Traffic Fine is Pending Payment.” The message claims the “Hawaii DMV” has notified the recipient of an unpaid traffic fine that will become effective February 2, 2026, and threatens consequences including vehicle registration cancellation, temporary license suspension, added service fees, and legal action if payment is not made.

Recipients are directed to click a link that appears to lead to a payment page, including URLs that are designed to steal personal and financial information.

These messages are not affiliated with the County of Kauaʻi, the State of Hawaiʻi, or any official Department of Motor Vehicles office.

The Finance Department reminds residents that official DMV communications do not request payment through unsolicited text messages, third-party websites, or unfamiliar web addresses.

The Finance Department urges the public to:
Do not click on links or respond to unsolicited text messages claiming to be from the DMV.
Do not provide personal, financial, or vehicle information through unknown websites.
Verify your vehicle registration or citation status directly with the County DMV by emailing kauaidmv@kauai.gov or calling (808) 241-4242.
Report phishing attempts to the State of Hawaiʻi Office of Consumer Protection or the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Residents are reminded that all official DMV notices come directly from government offices and will never demand immediate payment through suspicious links or non-government websites.

For more information, please contact the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at (808) 241-4242 or visit www.kauai.gov/DMV.

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