Illinois Secretary of State warns residents about fake DMV text scam

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning residents to be on the lookout for fake text messages claiming to be from the Illinois DMV.

According to Giannoulias, the scam texts purport to be sent by the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles,” and threaten to suspend a user’s vehicle registration and driving privileges over unpaid fines and tickets.

“Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,” Giannoulias said. “Please remain vigilant to avoid these scams and report them to protect yourself and others from falling victim to fraud schemes.”

The Secretary of State warns that users should not respond or open any links found in unsolicited texts or emails.