Texts telling people they have unpaid tolls are usually a scam to steal money and personal information, according to the FBI and FTC.
Editor’s note: The video in the player above is from a previous report.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning about an increase in fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles.”
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According to the Secretary of State’s office, the illegitimate messages falsely threaten to suspend vehicle registration and driving privileges, and they say enforcement action will be taken on Saturday.
Giannoulias’ office, in a news release, said the texts are “smishing” attempts, designed to trick residents into providing personal and or financial information. Anyone who receives the messages are advised to not respond or open any links.
The Secretary of State’s office explained it only sends texts to remind individuals about their scheduled DMV appointments; text messages regarding driver’s license or vehicle registration status aren’t sent by the office.
Reports of scam messages surfaced earlier this year, prompting the Secretary of State’s office to issue a warning.
Giannoulias previously advised residents to stay vigilant and attentive with personal text messages and e-mails, and to report any fraudulent communication. He advised anyone who receives such a message to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission here.

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