The Illinois Secretary of State is warning drivers across the state about an increasing level of text message scams claiming to be from the SOS or DMV.
The department says scammers have been crafting their messages to appear more authentic and including imminent deadlines to create panic in the recipients.
“Don’t click, it’s a trick,” Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias warns drivers.
What do the text scams look like?
The messages threaten vehicle registration suspension, license penalties or other enforcement actions if the recipient doesn’t click a link or pay an alleged fine, according to the SOS.
They often reference fabricated regulations, deadlines or penalty commencement dates, citing an upcoming enforcement date and listing severe consequences to pressure recipients into acting quickly.
“These schemes are designed to create panic and trick individuals into surrendering money or personal information,” the SOS says.
Does the Illinois SOS send text messages?
The Illinois SOS only sends text messages to remind residents about their scheduled DMV appointments. The department does not send texts related to driver’s license status, vehicle registration issues or enforcement actions.
“These text messages look legitimate and are designed to frighten people into acting quickly before they have time to think,” Giannoulias said. “Our office will never send a text message demanding payment or threatening to suspend someone’s license. If you receive a message like this, remember it’s a scam – plain and simple.”
What to do if you receive DMV scam texts
The SOS recommends doing the following if you receive the text message scams:
What is phishing? What is smishing?
Phishing is pronounced like the word “fishing” and is defined by Illinois Tollway as “the practice of sending fraudulent email messages that are disguised as legitimate and often include company logos that look real.” They are designed to steal money and often start with an official-looking message appearing to be from a trusted source, such as a credit card company or reputable online merchant.
Recipients are directed in the messages to a fraudulent website or asked to open an attachment that may contain potential email viruses. The information obtained is then usually used for identity theft.
Phishing is typically done either via phone call or email.
Smishing is essentially SMS phishing, where the method of trying to steal information is through text messages.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: ‘Don’t click.’ Illinois SOS warns drivers about new text scams
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
