‘Outstanding ticket’ text is just a scam

Scammers know just what to say – whether it is to congratulate you on a big jackpot win or threaten you with jailtime.

The Owatonna Police Department is alerting the public to yet another scam.

The OPD Records Department has received multiple calls and visits from citizens about a text message purportedly from the State of Minnesota, regarding past-due tickets.

The texts claim to be from the Minnesota Department of Vehicles, “warning” people of an outstanding traffic ticket – and if payment is not made by the following day, they will take a series of actions, including suspension of driving privileges or vehicle registration.

There is no such agency as the Department of Vehicles in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety said it will never text or email people asking for payment or personal information.

Officials say people should block the number from their inbox and delete the text message – and never click on a link.