Over the last weeks, the DMV of New York City was made aware of scam text messages that were being texted to their customers. Here’s the email we received this morning alerting us to the scam and phishing text messages regarding “Real ID requirements” and customers needing to “update contact (information)”
[blockquote]We are contacting you to make you aware of various text message phishing schemes targeting our customers, and to share tips that you can follow to protect yourself.
These fraudulent text messages are made to look like they are from the NYS DMV and they include a link to a fake DMV website. The messages ask the recipient to update their contact information in an attempt to gain access to sensitive personal data.
If you receive such a text message, you should not provide any personal data and should delete the text right away.[/blockquote]
As with most phishing scams, these text messages purportedly from the DMV are asking you to click on a link that looks like it’s coming from the DMV such as nydmv.link/ and a shortened link from ow.ly. Check out these screenshot images of a couple of those text messages:
The DMV of New York has suggested you follow these guidelines so not to be tricked into clicking on any of these fake links:
[blockquote]
Follow these tips to help protect against phishing schemes:
DO inspect all electronic communications you receive to confirm the message was generated from a legitimate source.
DO look for telltale signs of phishing – poor spelling or grammar, the use of threats, the URL does not match that of the legitimate website. If the message does not feel right, chances are it is not.
DON’T click on links embedded in an unsolicited message from an unverified source.
DON’T send your personal information via text. Legitimate businesses will not ask users to send sensitive personal information through text message.
DON’T post sensitive information online.[/blockquote]
If you want to know more about phishing scams and how to identify and avoid potential scams, go to this link New York State’s Phishing Awareness resources page