WATCH OUT FOR THIS NEW DMV TEXT SCAM

 

There's a new alert from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV wants you to remember that it does not ask for personal information through text or email - EVER. So don't share any personal information especially anything related to your driver’s license number, Social Security number or financial information through text or unsolicited phone calls or email.

Recently, the DMV has been alerted by multiple people that they received text messages directing them to an unfamiliar link. If a link does not direct customers to the main DMV website at dmv.ca.gov, it is NOT from the DMV.

The DMV does not send customers unsolicited requests for information. When the DMV texts or emails customers, it is based on action initiated by the customer. For example, customers may receive an appointment reminder or cancelation notice by text or email from the DMV. Customers may also receive an email related to DMV services that directs customers to the dmv.ca.gov website to take an action if they choose. Also, when a customer establishes an online account with DMV or has initiated an interactive, assisted online transaction with the DMV, further information may be requested.

With regard to links DMV sends you over any form of communication, if the link is not directly to a page on the CA DMV website, don't click on it.

The department requests that customers ignore or delete any unsolicited texts or emails requesting personal information claiming to be on behalf of the DMV. They suggest that customers who want to report any phishing attack, contact the FTC at ftc.gov. If you receive a phishing email, you can also forward it to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org. If you receive a phishing text message, forward it to SPAM (7726).

Keep your personal information private. Don't respond to unsolicited messages that appear to be from the DMV without contacting them first.