If you recently received a text from the Alabama DMV, don’t click on the link.

It’s a scam.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is warning people about a nationwide phishing scam that has recently targeted Alabamians with fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the “Alabama Department of Vehicles (DMV).”

“Scammers are trying to create a false sense of urgency by threatening you and your driving privileges,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said in a release. “We urge all Alabamians to be cautious and remember that our Agency will never contact you this way.”

It’s demanding payment for non-existent traffic tickets.

These messages threaten to suspend individuals’ driving privileges for 30 days and suspend vehicle registrations unless recipients click a malicious link or provide personal information.

Actually, there is no Alabama Department of Vehicles (DMV).

In Alabama, driver licensing services are administered by the ALEA’s Driver License Division. Vehicle registration is handled by the Alabama Department of Revenue (ADOR). Additionally, license plates issuance is handled through local county probate offices.

In addition, ALEA and its Driver License Division don’t send unsolicited text messages threatening prosecution and requesting personal information or payment.

What to watch for:

• Text messages claiming to be from the “Alabama DMV”
• Warnings about immediate license suspension or vehicle registration cancellation
• Links prompting users to enter personal or financial information

What to do:

• Do not click on links in suspicious text messages
• Do not provide any personal information
• Report phishing attempts to the Federal Trade Commission and/or the IC3 www.ic3.gov

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter@Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.