Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.
Georgia DDS Text Scam Messages

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is warning residents of a recurring text scam targeting drivers with fake notices about license suspensions, unpaid traffic tickets, or toll violations.

How the Scam Works

  • Urgency & Threats: Scammers send unsolicited text messages claiming your license is about to be suspended or that you owe immediate payment for a citation.
  • Fake Websites: The messages contain a link to a fraudulent website designed to look like an official government page.
  • Data Theft: Once on the site, you are prompted to enter personal information—such as your driver's license number, Social Security number, or credit card details—which is then stolen.

Red Flags

  • The "DMV" Name: Many of these texts claim to be from the "State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)". Georgia does not have a DMV; the actual agency is the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
  • Unofficial Links: Scammers often use URLs that look official but are not. The only official Georgia DDS website is dds.ga.gov.
  • Method of Contact: DDS will never request payment or sensitive information via unsolicited text messages. Official notifications regarding license status are sent via U.S. Mail.

What to Do

  1. Do Not Click: Avoid clicking any links or scanning QR codes in suspicious texts.
  2. Verify Directly: If you are concerned about your license status, check it safely by logging into your official DDS Online Services account.
  3. Delete and Report: Delete the message immediately. You can also report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

If you have already provided personal or financial information, contact your bank immediately to secure your accounts and monitor your credit report for unusual activity.

Further Exploration

  • Visit the official Georgia DDS Fake Text Scams page for visual examples of fraudulent messages and more protection tips.
  • Read the latest warning from Georgia.gov regarding ongoing "smishing" attempts.
  • Learn how to secure your identity if you've already been targeted at IdentityTheft.gov.
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