Scams targeting REAL ID seekers surge as deadline approaches, BBB warns

CHICAGO (WGN) — Amidst the rush for obtaining a REAL ID before next month’s fast-approaching deadline, the Better Business Bureau is warning the public about an uptick in scams designed to steal one’s identity.

The BBB warns that calls, texts, or emails offering to “help” with obtaining a REAL ID are fraudulent.

BBB president and CEO Steve J. Bernas added that while such communication efforts may often appear legitimate, “no government agency will contact you out of the blue regarding a REAL ID.”

Anyone who may have fallen victim to this scam is asked to report it to the BBB’s Scam Tracker.

In March, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced a new supercenter in Chicago, as well as expanded hours at a handful of driver’s license bureaus (DMVs) around the state, to help alleviate the logjam of long lines and wait times.

The deadline to obtain a REAL ID is Wednesday, May 7.