DMV issues scam alert about fake text payment requests
The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles is urging Delawareans not to click on links in suspicious text messages.
A new text-based phishing scam has surfaced referencing the DMV; the text states the recipient has an outstanding traffic violation and needs to click on a link to pay the amount due by a specific date to avoid suspension of their vehicle registration and driving privileges.
These text message alerts are a scam designed to trick recipients into paying an undisclosed amount, while also gaining access to their personal, private and financial data.
The DMV urges all residents and customers not to click on any links soliciting money for unpaid traffic violations, toll violations or account replenishment.
The Delaware DMV and E-ZPass Delaware will not contact anyone via email or text demanding payment for a violation.
“Please, no matter who the message is from, don’t click on a link to initiate a payment of any type unless you are confident the message is legit,” said DMV Director Amy Anthony. “My best advice is if it looks suspicious, it probably is.
“If you are unsure, take a moment and then reread the message. Typically, you will see the red flags the second time around.”
Anyone who receives a suspicious text or email can report it to the Federal Trade Commission or the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
When reporting, be sure to include the phone number from which the text originated and the website listed within the text.
Anyone who clicks on a suspicious link or has provided sensitive information to an unknown source should secure their personal information and financial accounts, and dispute any unfamiliar charges with their financial institutions and credit card companies.
Anyone seeking information about their license or registration may sign in to their MyDMV account at myDMV.delaware.gov, call 302-744-2500 or email DMVCustomerService@delaware.gov.
For information about an E-ZPass account, visit ezpassde.com or call 1-888-397-2773.
