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DMV Media Relations

dor_dmvmedia@state.co.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Colorado DMV warns of “Title Theft” scams

Colorado drivers risk losing vehicles to fraudulent third parties

DENVER – Tuesday, June 16, 2026 — The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Motor Vehicle Investigation Unit (MVIU) is warning vehicle owners of a rising scam where third-party “helpers” are illegally seizing vehicle ownership under the guise of assistance.

“Our investigators are seeing a troubling trend where scammers exploit the title and registration process to take legal control of a person’s vehicle,” MVIU Investigations Chief Dana Chavez said. “There is no reason a third party needs to help you title your car.”

Fraudsters often target individuals who lack standard identification, offering to act as a “Power of Attorney” or asking to be added to the title to “facilitate” registration. While it may be tempting to pay someone to “help” you, once their name is on the legal document, they become the legal owner and can sell, tow, or seize the car without the victim’s consent. Someone who is not an actual owner of that document—or putting the vehicle in their name entirely—grants them the legal rights to your vehicle.

To ensure your vehicle remains legally yours, the first and most vital step is obtaining a valid Colorado driver’s license or identification (ID) card. Because Colorado provides these identification documents regardless of your immigration status, there is no need to rely on a third party for help.

“We urge all residents to always use official channels rather than third-party ‘helpers’,” Chavez said. “This is the best way to ensure their vehicle stays in their name.”

As a reminder, depending on how you bought your car, the following methods are the safest and most official ways to register your vehicle:

• Bought it from a person? Customers participating in private sales must visit their local county DMV office. Additionally, these buyers should always conduct a VIN check before purchase to ensure the vehicle is not stolen.
• Bought it from a car dealership? Customers who purchased a vehicle from a dealership can conveniently use the DMV’s online services or go to their local DMV.

To learn more about the most common motor vehicle and driver scams and fraud impacting Coloradans, please visit our scam/fraud alerts webpage.

About the Colorado DMV

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is committed to promoting public safety, trust, and confidence by providing customer-focused driver license and motor vehicle services. With a vision to enhance the quality of life for all Coloradans, the DMV strives to deliver exemplary service, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for every customer. Visit DMV.Colorado.gov to learn more.

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