Kathrine Frich
The scammers are counting on panic and confusion, don’t fall for it.
The scammers are counting on panic and confusion, don’t fall for it.
iPhone Users Warned to Delete This Text Immediately
A chilling warning has been issued to over 150 million iPhone and Android users in the U.S., if you get a certain text message claiming to be from the DMV, delete it immediately.
The FBI has stepped in after a massive spike in these dangerous scams.
Text Scam Surge Hits 773% in One Week
According to cybersecurity company Guardio, reports of fake DMV texts have exploded, with a 773% increase in just the first week of June alone, according to Unilad.
These texts pretend to come from your state’s DMV and claim you owe tolls or fines, threatening jail time or revoked driving privileges.
Fake Fines, Real Danger
These messages might look official, but they’re a trap.
Law enforcement warns the real goal is stealing your personal data, including credit card numbers and payment info.
Clicking the link can infect your phone with malware that harvests your details silently.
FBI Agent: Delete the Text, Don’t Click the Link
FBI Tennessee Supervisory Special Agent David Palmer issued a stark warning: “These texts put malware on your phone.”
His advice? If you don’t know the sender and there’s a link, don’t click, just delete.
A National Scam: Multiple States Targeted
The fake toll scams aren’t isolated. States hit hardest include Tennessee, New York, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Texas, and Washington DC.
Texts vary by region but carry the same goal: to trick people into sharing sensitive information.
“DMV Will Never Ask for Personal Info by Text”
DMV Commissioner Mark J. F. Schroeder reassured the public: “DMV will never send texts asking for sensitive details.”
The scammers are counting on panic and confusion, don’t fall for it.
What to Do If You Get the Text
- Do not click on any links.
- Do not reply to the message.
- Delete it immediately.
- If you’ve already clicked or entered any information, secure your accounts ASAP.
How to Report the Scam
Victims or anyone receiving the text should report it through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov).
This helps authorities track and shut down these operations.