Real ID scams target applicants as deadline hits — this is one red flag to watch out for
Real ID, real scams.
Con artists have been targeting Americans overwhelmed by today's deadline for a Real ID.
The enhanced form of identification will be required to fly domestically, enter federal buildings, and access secure facilities, with phony websites promising expedited processing, per the Better Business Bureau.
However, the only way to obtain a Real ID is by visiting the DMV in person — a fact that fraudsters are exploiting, said Pamela Hernandez, BBB Springfield Regional Director, according to KSNF Joplin.
4 As the Real ID deadline looms, scammers are swooping in, preying on rushed and bewildered applicants with bogus websites and empty promises of fast-tracked processing, the Better Business Bureau warns.
REUTERS
'Something that we do see that's similar are passports and passport renewals,' Hernandez said.
'People get in a hurry because they've got a trip coming up, and they start looking online on how to expedite that, and scammers create websites to take advantage of that and confused consumers. So while we haven't seen anything with Real ID yet, it is a possibility because of all the conversation and confusion.'
Amie Mitchell, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Oklahoma, said scammers are setting up fake websites that claim to offer Real IDs online, luring in frantic consumers who are desperate to meet the deadline, Fox News 23 reports.
4 Beginning today, a Real ID is mandatory for domestic flights, federal buildings, and secure facilities — but the only way to get one is in person at the DMV, a detail scammers are capitalizing on.
AP
'You've got to be careful with Real ID,' Mitchell warned. 'The scams we've been seeing online are that you can get your Real ID completely online. If you are seeing that, that is false. You have to go to the local DMV to get it done and there are only certain DMVs in town that are actually doing this.'
Bao Vang with the Better Business Bureau echoed those concerns, urging people to avoid entering personal or financial information into any unsolicited messages or websites claiming to offer Real IDs.
'If you're asked to provide additional information, such as bank account information or credit card numbers, likely a red flag of a scam,' Vang said to CBS News.
4 When people are rushing to get their documents before a trip, they often search online for quick fixes — a tactic scammers exploit by creating fake websites to prey on confused consumers, experts warn.
AP
The Real ID is a security-enhanced form of identification that includes a gold star in the upper corner.
To get one, applicants must provide several forms of documentation, including a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residence — all prime targets for identity thieves.
Mitchell emphasized that while the deadline has arrived, consumers with a valid passport can still fly without a Real ID, providing some breathing room to avoid the rush — and the scammers.
4 If you're prompted to share bank account or credit card details, that's a glaring scam warning, experts say — and a clear sign you need to head to the real DMV.
AP
'Consumers should know there are all sorts of fake websites out there that will say they can do this all for you and I know we have a deadline but you cannot do this solely online. You have to go to the DMV,' she said to Fox News 23,
The BBB advises consumers to report suspected scams to their local BBB office and to the Federal Trade Commission at FTC.gov.
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