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GATESVILLE – A text message scam is making its rounds across the state, including Gates County.

Sheriff Ray Campbell says the text message claims to be from the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) as a “Final Notice” and threatens enforcement penalties would begin on June 6 without payment.

“Unfortunately, this is another scam that is being used to target your personal and financial information,” Campbell said. “While we have no way of knowing who is behind the fake text message, we can make you all aware and encourage you to not click the link or provide any of your personal information to anyone by text.”

As part of the scam, the text message claims that the person has an outstanding traffic ticket. If payment is not made, it states the following actions will be taken:

A report to the DMV violation database;

A suspension of vehicle registration starting June 6;

A suspension of driving privileges for 30 days;

A transfer to a toll booth and a 35 percent service fee charge;

And possible prosecution which can affect your credit score.

The text includes a link for payment which redirects to a phishing site meant to steal people’s personal information.

Campbell urged local citizens to not respond to these messages or click any links within them, and to always be vigilant with their digital identity.