Only One DMV Text Is Legit—Illinois Officials Warn About Fake Messages

If your phone just lit up with a terrifying text from the "Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles," take a deep breath; it's a scam. In fact, there is only one real text you'll ever get from the DMV.

What The Scam Looks Like

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Scammers are sending fake text messages that claim your vehicle registration or driver's license is about to be suspended. The message might look official, but it's just phishing for your personal or financial info. Even worse? It says it's from the "Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles," which isn't even a thing. Nice try, scammer.

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Only One DMV Text Is Legit

According to Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, in a recent post from nbcchicago.com, the DMV doesn't text you about your license or registration status, ever. The only text message you'll get is a reminder about a DMV appointment you already scheduled. That's it. No threats. No links. No "click here or we'll tow your soul."

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What You Should Do

If you get one of these sketchy messages, don't respond, don't click anything, and definitely don't give up personal info. Report it to the Federal Trade Commission. And maybe share this with your group chat grandma.