The latest phishing scam involves sending people text messages falsely claiming New York State is offering $1,500 rebates as a result of high fuel prices.
If someone clicks on the link provided, they are brought to a webpage that is designed to look like the DMV website and they are asked to submit personal information.
This is the latest in a series of such text message phishing schemes that DMV has warned New Yorkers to avoid. Phishing texts are fraudulent messages designed to obtain data or sensitive personal information to be used to commit identity theft or trick the recipient into installing malicious software onto a computer or mobile device.
"We want New Yorkers to be aware that these scams are out there, and we urge them to be vigilant if they receive any text message or email that seems suspicious," DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said. "DMV will not send you text messages asking for your personal information. If you aren't sure if you received a phishing scam, you may contact us at dmv.sm.phishingattacks@dmv.ny.gov."
To help protect against phishing or smishing (SMS phishing) scams, the NYS Office of Information Technology Services (ITS) recommends the following precautions:
- Be cautious about all communications you receive, including those that purport to be from "trusted entities." Be careful when clicking any links contained within those messages. If in doubt, do not click.
- Do not send your personal information via email. Legitimate businesses will not ask users to send sensitive personal information through email.
- Keep an eye out for telltale signs: poor spelling or grammar, the use of threats, or the URL does not match that of the legitimate site.
- Be wary of how much information you post online. The less information you post, the less data you make available to a cyber criminal for use in developing a potential attack or scam.
DMV provides information on phishing scams on our website at dmv.ny.gov/more-info/phishing-attacks. Examples of the text messages can be found at dmv.ny.gov/more-info/phishing-examples.
For additional information on phishing scams, as well as steps to mitigate a phishing attempt, visit the NYS Office of Information Technology Services Phishing Awareness resources page at its.ny.gov/resources.
For more information about the DMV, visit dmv.ny.gov or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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