Ohio BMV, Sheriff, Issue Warnings Over Scam Texts
Ohio residents are being targeted by scammers posing as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to get personal information, authorities are warning.
Ohio residents are being targeted by scammers posing as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to get personal information, authorities are warning.
“Ohio residents have reported receiving text messages from scammers claiming to be from BMV and informing the recipients that they have an outstanding traffic ticket,” the Ohio BMV said in a press release. “The text then instructs the recipient to pay immediately to avoid a license suspension.”
This is a phishing technique that is aimed to get personal and financial information, the BMV said, adding it is part of a national scam.
These messages could say you have outstanding tickets, you have a suspended license or ask for personal information, the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office added in a statement.
The messages could also look official with BMV logos and links, GCSO said.
“If you receive this text, do not fall for this scam,” Ohio BMV Registrar Charlie Norman said. “Do not click any links and delete the text. (The) Ohio BMV will never send you a text demanding payment or requesting your personal information.”
The GCSO emphasized that people should not click any links or give out any personal information.
“The BMV does NOT send unsolicited texts asking for personal info,” the GCSO said. “If in doubt, contact your local BMV office directly or visit their official website.”
Scam attempts can be reported to scam the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
