Louisiana Residents Warned of 'DMV' Scam Texts

Franklin Parish Sheriff advises caution over fraudulent messages demanding payment

Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:07am

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The Franklin Parish Sheriff is alerting residents about a scam involving text messages that appear to be from the 'Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles' demanding payment for unpaid tickets and fees. The sheriff is warning people not to respond to these messages, as Louisiana has an 'Office of Motor Vehicles' rather than a 'Department of Motor Vehicles', and the OMV does not send threatening texts about violations.

Why it matters

Scams like this can trick unsuspecting residents into revealing personal information or making fraudulent payments, leading to identity theft and financial losses. By raising awareness, the sheriff hopes to prevent locals from falling victim to this particular scheme.

The details

According to Sheriff Bryan Linder, numerous Franklin Parish residents have reported receiving text messages claiming they owe unpaid tickets or fees to the 'Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles.' However, Louisiana does not have a 'Department of Motor Vehicles' - it has an 'Office of Motor Vehicles' (OMV) which does not send threatening texts about violations. The sheriff advises residents to be cautious of these messages and to contact law enforcement if they receive anything similar.

  • On March 18, 2026, the Franklin Parish Sheriff issued the warning about the scam text messages.

The players

Bryan Linder

The Franklin Parish Sheriff who is warning residents about the 'DMV' scam text messages.

Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles

The state agency that handles vehicle registration and licensing in Louisiana, not a 'Department of Motor Vehicles' as referenced in the scam texts.

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What they’re saying

“It is also important to note Louisiana has an 'Office of Motor Vehicles' not a 'Department of Motor Vehicles.'”

— Bryan Linder, Franklin Parish Sheriff

What’s next

The Franklin Parish Sheriff's Office is advising residents to contact local or state law enforcement if they receive any similar scam messages demanding payment.

The takeaway

This scam highlights the importance of verifying the legitimacy of any government agency or department before responding to unsolicited messages, in order to avoid falling victim to fraud and identity theft schemes.