SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – The South Dakota Department of Public Safety is warning residents about a scam text message campaign circulating across the state that falsely claims recipients owe traffic ticket fines and face legal action if they do not pay immediately.

The Department of Public Safety said these messages are not legitimate. The State of South Dakota does not send traffic ticket notices via text messages.

The fraudulent messages appear to come from the “South Dakota Department of Vehicles (DMV)” and include threatening language such as:

“South Dakota Department of Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 10. Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes.”

The Department of Public Safety said those who receive these text messages should not open any links or attachments, respond to the texts, send any payments, or provide any personal or financial information.

People can verify their ticket stats through official channels only, such as the South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS), or by contacting their local Clerk of Courts office.

If you receive a suspicious message, report it to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or [email protected].

Residents are urged to remain cautious and help spread the word, especially to those who may be less familiar with digital scams.