Scammers change spam texts to mention Indiana BMV

INDIANAPOLIS – Scammers made a key change to spam messages targeting Hoosiers.

Earlier this month, FOX59/CBS4 reported on a text message scam surrounding the “Indiana Department of Vehicles” (DMV). The messages threaten punitive action for an outstanding ticket.

The fraudulent nature of the messages was easy to figure out, as Indiana doesn’t have a “DMV” but rather a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

Scammers have recently altered the messages to reference the BMV instead in an effort to look more legitimate. The Indiana BMV issued a warning this week about the change.

“We want to make it clear that these messages are not from the Indiana BMV,” the agency said. “The BMV does not send SMS text messages about outstanding penalties. Any such message should be considered fraudulent.”

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita also warned about the scam, which aims to steal personal and financial information. Rokita said his office has received numerous complaints about the latest round of messages, which are using Apple’s iMessage app rather than SMS.

The scam texts warn people they’ll be reported for a ticket violation, resulting in the suspension of their registration and driving privileges. They also threaten additional fees, prosecution and a negative impact on credit scores.

Both the BMV and Attorney General’s Office offer the following tips for dealing with the scam:

• Don’t click on any links in emails or text messages purporting to be from the BMV
• Don’t give anyone your personal information, such as your driver’s license number or Social Security number
• Don’t share any financial information, like card or account details, through texts or links
• Report the messages as junk and block the phone number or email address
• Ignore the messages and delete them

Additionally, you can forward spam emails to the FTC at spam@uce.gov and report them at reportFraud.ftc.gov. Find call blocking resources here.