The majority of Americans check their messages several times a day. It's a daily habit that, without us realizing it, can become a gateway for cybercriminals. Now, a new security alert is directly affecting millions of cell phone users.
Authorities have detected a scam that's already circulating in multiple states across the country. The messages appear to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They use an urgent tone: they mention a "final notice" and the possible suspension of your license or registration.
Direct threat to the cell phone
This fraud, known as smishing, is designed to deceive and frighten. The message claims there are outstanding fines and that if they're not paid immediately, penalties will be applied. To solve it, the user must click on a fake link that leads to a fraudulent site.
Cases have already been reported in New Jersey, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Illinois, and other states. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) has confirmed multiple complaints. According to their explanation, these messages aim to steal personal and financial information.
The modus operandi is clear: create panic so the victim acts quickly. That's how DMV director Amy Anthony warned, who asked to "think before clicking." She reminded that personal, banking, or social security information should never be sent by text message.
What to do if you receive this message
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has already issued recommendations. If you receive a similar message, don't reply or open any link; the safest thing is to report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov or at ic3.gov, the FBI's site. You can also copy the message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM); this helps mobile providers identify and block similar scams.
Another option is to report it directly in your messaging app as spam. If you have doubts about the authenticity of the message, don't use the link that appears. Look up your state's official DMV number and contact them directly; government agencies don't request payments or sensitive data by text.
What smishing is and why it's so dangerous
Smishing is a form of digital attack based on text messages; its goal is to steal data or install malicious programs on the device. The FBI classifies it as a type of "social engineering." Unlike classic phishing, which arrives by email, this one takes advantage of the immediacy of SMS.
Once the user clicks, they may be handing over their information to criminals without knowing it, and the damage can be severe. In addition, this type of fraud often relies on identity theft. Scammers modify numbers or links to make them look authentic; sometimes, a single changed symbol or letter is enough to deceive the victim.
Experts also warn about scams like "brushing." In this case, unsolicited packages are received and then used to post fake reviews. Behind these practices, there is often misuse of your personal data.