Fake Text Message From GA Dept. Of Driver Services: Avoid This Scam

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

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Fake Text Message from GA Dept. of Driver Services: Avoid This Scam!

Georgians are being targeted by a sophisticated text message scam impersonating the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). This fraudulent scheme aims to steal personal information and potentially lead to identity theft. If you've received a suspicious text, don't fall victim – read on to learn how to identify and avoid this scam.

The Scam:

The scam text message typically claims there's an issue with your Georgia driver's license or vehicle registration. The message often includes a link, urging recipients to click immediately to "resolve" the supposed problem. This link usually leads to a fake DDS website designed to look authentic, but it's actually a phishing site created to harvest your personal data. Information thieves are after sensitive details like your:

• Full name
• Driver's license number
• Social Security number
• Date of birth
• Address
• Credit card information

How to Spot the Scam:

The Georgia DDS will never contact you via text message regarding license or registration issues. Always be wary of unsolicited texts, especially those with urgent requests or threats. Here are key indicators of a fake text:

• Generic Greeting: The message doesn't address you by name.
• Sense of Urgency: The text creates a sense of panic, pressuring you to act quickly.
• Suspicious Link: The link looks unprofessional or doesn't match the official DDS website (dds.georgia.gov). Hover your mouse over the link (without clicking) to see the actual URL.
• Grammatical Errors: The message contains spelling or grammatical mistakes.
• Unexpected Contact: You haven't recently interacted with the DDS.

What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Text:

1. Do not click any links. This is the most crucial step. Clicking the link could infect your device with malware or expose your personal information.

2. Delete the text message. Simply remove the message from your phone.

3. Report the scam. Forward the suspicious text to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your carrier and authorities track and potentially shut down the scam operation. You can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

4. Monitor your accounts. Keep a close eye on your bank accounts, credit reports, and other financial accounts for any unauthorized activity. Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit reports.

Protecting Yourself from Similar Scams:

• Be cautious of unsolicited communication. Never click links or provide personal information unless you're absolutely sure of the source's legitimacy.
• Verify information independently. If you receive a communication that seems suspicious, contact the organization directly through official channels (website, phone number from a trusted source) to verify its authenticity.
• Keep your software updated. Ensure your phone and computer have the latest security updates installed to protect against malware.
• Educate yourself and others. Spread awareness about this and other scams to protect your community.

The Georgia Department of Driver Services prioritizes the security of your personal information. By staying vigilant and following these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of this fraudulent scheme. Remember, if something seems too good – or too bad – to be true, it probably is.