LTO Warns Public About New Phishing Scam Targeting Motorists

UPDATE May 13, 2026 4:12 AM:

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The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued another warning to motorists as phishing scams continue to spread using fake LTMS (Land Transportation Management System) links. The agency clarified that it does not send violation notices or payment instructions through text messages and urged the public to avoid interacting with suspicious messages.

Fake LTMS Links Used in New Scam Messages

Scammers have been circulating messages claiming that the recipient has an unsettled traffic violation. A common version of the scam reads:

“You have an unsettled violation under RA 10913 — Using Mobile Phone While Driving. Fine: ₱1,000 due within 24 hours. Failure to settle may result in additional penalties, license suspension, or an LTMS alarm.”

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The message includes a link posing as the LTMS Portal. When clicked, victims are taken to a fraudulent website designed to steal personal information or payment details.

Authorities Do Not Send Links Through SMS

The LTO emphasized that government agencies, including the LTO, do not send clickable links through SMS, especially for violations, payments, or account access. Any unsolicited message directing recipients to click a link should be treated as a scam attempt.

Violations Can Only Be Checked at the Official LTMS Portal but Do Not Use Links From Text Messages

Motorists may view their official traffic violations through the legitimate LTMS Portal, but they must access it by typing the official website manually and not by clicking links sent via SMS.

This ensures that users land on the real website and not a spoofed or fabricated page.

Official LTMS Portal: https://portal.lto.gov.ph/

The LTO stressed that this is the only valid site where motorists can review their records. If the link comes from a text message, even if it looks similar, it should not be trusted.

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Official LTO Online Channels

To guide the public, LTO listed its verified online platforms:

• LTMS Portal: https://portal.lto.gov.ph/
• Official Website: https://lto.gov.ph/
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/LTOPHILIPPINES

Anything outside these channels, especially URLs sent via text or private messages, should be considered suspicious.

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Warning Signs of a Scam Message

Motorists are urged to be cautious of messages that include:

• Urgent claims of unsettled violations
• Threats of penalties or license suspension
• Payment deadlines within 24 hours
• Links that mimic official LTO portals
• Requests for personal or payment information

Rise in Scam Activity During Ber Months

LTO noted that scam activities often increase during the Ber months, prompting the agency to repeat its advisories to the public. Motorists are encouraged to verify first before taking action.

How To Respond to Suspicious Messages

LTO advises the public to:

• Avoid clicking links in text messages
• Do not provide information to unverified websites
• Report suspicious messages to AksyON THE SPOT at +63 929 292 0865

Those who may have clicked a fake link are urged to update their passwords and check for any unauthorized activity in their accounts.

Stay Vigilant

The LTO reminds motorists that vigilance is key in preventing scams. By relying only on official platforms and refusing to engage with suspicious text messages, the public can better protect themselves from phishing schemes.

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