NEW ULM — The Brown County Sheriff’s Office reported receiving complaints Wednesday about scammers sending fake text and email messages pretending to be the Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services (DMV) or other state agency.

“Messages claim victims have an outstanding traffic ticket, action may be taken against them and directs them to a payment link,” read the release.

Scammers frequently use urgency as a tactic to manipulate victims into making quick decisions, potentially providing sensitive information or money, according to the release.

Brown County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Andrew Konechne said scammers instruct victims to log into a link.

“Several people told us Wednesday about the texts. They’re trying to collect personal information including credit card numbers,” said Konechne.

The Minnesota DMV is aware of this scam and will never text or email you asking for payment or personal information.

Anyone who receives a suspicious text or email message is urged to not respond and delete it, according to the news release.

Tips to avoid scams include never giving out personal or financial information in response to unsolicited requests from phone calls, emails or text messages.

The public was urged to be cautious of requests for money via gift cards, PayPal, or wire transfers.

Victims that have provided personal information and/or money are urged to contact their financial institution and report it to law enforcement.

An example of the text scam mentioned enforcement penalties beginning June 7 including suspension of vehicle registration and driving privileges and a 35% service fee.