The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has learned of a text message phishing scam related to REAL ID and reminds customers that it will never ask for personal information related to driver’s license number, Social Security number, or financial information through email, text, or over the phone.
“We offer secure online services and send text messages for some services, but never ask for personal information outside of a secure DMV account accessed by the customer,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon.
The DMV said it has heard from multiple customers who have received a text message stating, “Our records indicate that your contact information must be updated for REAL ID Compliance. Provide an up-to-date mailing address and phone number.” When customers click the continue button, they are asked to click on the link in the email and update their contact information. “The DMV has not sent such a text, nor would we,” Gordon said.
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.
The department recommends its customers ignore or delete any unsolicited texts or emails requesting personal information on behalf of the DMV. Customers can report the phishing attack to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint and forward emails to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at [email protected]. For a phishing text message, forward it to SPAM (7726).
Starting October 1, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require a valid passport or another federally approved document, like a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card, to board flights within the United States and access secure federal facilities and military bases.
Before visiting a DMV office for a new REAL ID, customers should fill out the online application, upload their documents, and bring their confirmation code and documents with them to an office at their convenience, even the same day. More information is available at realid.dmv.ca.gov.
