The California DMV has warned of an ongoing smishing campaign seeking customers’ personal and financial information, Pasadena Now reports.
“The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) reminds customers that it will never ask for personal information related to driver’s license number, Social Security number or financial information through text or unsolicited phone calls or email,” the DMV said in a statement. “The DMV has heard from multiple customers who have received text messages directing them to an unfamiliar link. If a link does not direct customers to the main DMV website at dmv.ca.gov, it is NOT from the DMV.
The department stressed that, while it sometimes does send texts or emails to customers, it won’t contact you out of the blue asking for personal information.
“The DMV does not send customers unsolicited requests for information,” the DMV stated. “When the DMV texts or emails customers, it is based on action initiated by the customer. For example, customers may receive an appointment reminder or cancelation notice by text or email from the DMV. Customers may also receive an email related to DMV services that directs customers to the dmv.ca.gov website to take an action if they choose. Also, when a customer establishes an online account with DMV or has initiated an interactive, assisted online transaction with the DMV, further information may be requested.”
The DMV added that people should either ignore or report these phishing attempts.
“The department recommends customers ignore or delete any unsolicited texts or emails requesting personal information claiming to be on behalf of the DMV. Customers can report the phishing attack to the FTC at ftc.gov. If you receive a phishing email, forward it to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org. For a phishing text message, forward it to SPAM (7726).”
New-school security awareness training can enable your employees to avoid falling for social engineering attacks.
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