South Carolina’s Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) has issued a warning to residents about fake text messages that are pretending to be from the DMV.
These scam texts have been going around recently and are tricking people into clicking on links or giving away their personal information.
The SCDMV clearly stated that it does not send text messages to customers unless they have signed up to receive such alerts.
Even then, they would never send messages that ask for personal or financial information like Social Security numbers, bank details, or payments. So if you get a text that looks like it’s from the SCDMV asking for these things, it’s a scam.
Officials say these scam texts often look real. Some may even have the SCDMV name or logo in them, and they might say that your license is about to be suspended or that you owe a fine.
They usually include a link, which, if clicked, could lead you to a fake website designed to steal your data or install malware on your phone.
The SCDMV is asking people to be very cautious. If you get a message like this, don’t click on any links. Instead, delete the message immediately. If you’re not sure whether a message is real, it’s better to contact the SCDMV directly by visiting their official website or calling their customer service number.
The agency has also requested people to report these scams. You can report suspicious messages to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Reporting helps authorities track these scams and try to stop them from spreading.
This isn’t the first time that scammers have tried to use the name of a government agency to trick people. With technology improving, scam messages are becoming more common and more convincing.
That’s why the SCDMV is reminding everyone to stay alert and never give out personal details through messages or unfamiliar websites.
To avoid falling for such scams, officials suggest keeping your phone updated with the latest security patches, using antivirus apps, and blocking suspicious numbers. It’s also a good idea to educate your family members, especially elderly relatives, as they’re often targeted in these types of scams.
The SCDMV stressed again that any official communication from them will never ask you to provide sensitive details through a text message. If the message seems threatening or urgent, that’s a red flag. Scammers use fear to push people into acting quickly without thinking.
If you’ve already clicked on one of these fake links or entered your information, it’s important to act fast. Change your passwords, contact your bank if needed, and report the scam right away. The sooner you act, the better your chances of stopping any damage.
South Carolinians are encouraged to help spread the word and keep their community safe. Scammers are always looking for new ways to take advantage of people, but by staying informed and cautious, everyone can help reduce the risk.