Received A Suspicious Text From GA Driver Services? It's Likely A Scam

Michael

2 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

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Received a Suspicious Text from GA Driver Services? It's Likely a Scam

Have you received a suspicious text message claiming to be from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS)? Don't fall victim! Increasing reports indicate a surge in sophisticated phishing scams targeting Georgia drivers, using seemingly legitimate-looking messages to steal personal information. This article will help you identify these scams and protect yourself from becoming a victim.

Understanding the Scam

These fraudulent texts often mimic official DDS communications, urging recipients to click a link to update their license, address, or other crucial information. The messages may use urgent language, threatening penalties like license suspension or fines if action isn't taken immediately. However, the Georgia DDS never conducts official business via text message.

Key Indicators of a Phishing Scam:

• Generic Greetings: The text uses a generic greeting like "Dear Customer" instead of your name.
• Urgent Tone & Threats: The message creates a sense of urgency and threatens penalties if you don't act quickly.
• Suspicious Links: The provided link doesn't lead to a legitimate .gov website. Hover over the link (without clicking!) to see the actual URL. Legitimate government websites always end in ".gov".
• Grammar and Spelling Errors: Poor grammar and spelling are common hallmarks of scam messages.
• Request for Personal Information: The text asks for sensitive information like your driver's license number, Social Security number, or banking details. The DDS will never request this information via text.

What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Text:

1. Do Not Click Any Links: Avoid clicking any links within the suspicious text message.
2. Do Not Reply: Responding to the message could confirm your number is active and lead to further scams.
3. Report the Message: Forward the suspicious text to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your carrier identify and block the sender. You can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov.
4. Verify Information Directly: If you are unsure about the status of your driver's license or registration, visit the official Georgia DDS website () to check your information directly.

Protecting Yourself from Future Scams:

• Be Wary of Unsolicited Texts: Treat any unsolicited text message with suspicion, especially those requesting personal information.
• Check the Sender's Information: Pay close attention to the phone number or email address used by the sender.
• Strengthen Your Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Keep your smartphone's operating system and apps updated to benefit from the latest security patches.

The Georgia Department of Driver Services will never request personal information via text message. Remember to always verify information through official channels before taking any action. Staying vigilant and informed is your best defense against these fraudulent schemes. If you believe you've fallen victim to this scam, contact your bank and the FTC immediately.