The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is warning Iowans about scammers impersonating the agency and demanding payment for fake traffic violations. Officials say the scam typically involves text messages claiming to be from NHTSA that reference fraudulent judges, case numbers, and threats of serious consequences in an effort to pressure recipients into clicking a link and paying a supposed fine. The agency emphasized it does not issue traffic tickets and will never text, call, or email members of the public to request payment for a traffic violation. Traffic citations are issued by state or local governments and law enforcement agencies. Government impostor scams often rely on fear and urgency to push people into acting quickly. Common warning signs include demands for unusual payment methods such as gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or digital payment apps, as well as threats of arrest, driver’s license suspension, or large fines. Consumers who receive suspicious messages should delete them and avoid clicking any links.
