Real ID deadline nears: Scammers prey on those without the ID
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — A busy travel week is coming to an end as spring breakers make their return to Rochester.
Also coming to an end — is plane travel without the need for a REAL ID.
As the deadline quickly approaches, News 8's Andrew Banas explains there are some things you will need to be cautious of.
By now, many are aware of the need to have your REAL ID secured by the May 7 deadline. What you might now be aware of is the Better Business Bureau's warning that you could be targeted by scammers if you don't have it yet.
With less than 20 days to go, are you ready? Beth Dove is.
'I got it when it first came out,' she told News 8. 'It was no trouble to get it.'
But thousands — are not.
News 8's Andrew Banas: Have you gotten your REAL ID yet?
Maria Keller: What's that?
Keller and her family just got back from Florida. It's an annual trip, and next time they go, they'll need it.
Starting May 7, REAL IDs will be required to fly domestically. A US Passport will also grant you access aboard a plane. There is no cost to upgrade your license to a REAL ID, but there is a time crunch.
Bernard Streb flies to visit family frequently. He knows he needs to get his quickly or he won't be able to anymore. The Better Business Bureau said he's exactly the kind of person scammers target.
According to the BBB, imposters will pose as government employees to gain access to people's bank accounts, warning them about the upcoming deadline, or claiming there is an issue with their status.
'That's scary,' Keller said. 'I guess before you go and do and do anything, you make sure it's a legit text or website.'
Keller said that makers her nervous. But the BBB explains that no government agency will reach out to you directly about your REAL ID. Any caller making that claim isn't who they say they are. And Keller insists, she'll be ready for their next trip.
News 8's Andrew Banas: When you do plan that next one, what are you going to make sure you have?
Keller: My REAL ID!
For more information on securing a REAL ID, click here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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