Latest news with #NewYorkStateDMV
Yahoo
a day ago
- General
- Yahoo
DMV Scam Texts Target Multiple States. What You Must Know
A person prepares to enter a New York State DMV on April 28, 2025 in New York City. Credit - Michael M. Santiago—2025 Getty Images Authorities and Department of Motor Vehicles offices (DMVs) officials across multiple U.S. states have released advisories to their citizens to look out for scam texts that are attempting to manipulate drivers into paying a fake 'outstanding toll.' The prevalence of the text scams ramped up throughout May, leading to various states issuing warnings and advice, ultimately telling members of the public to watch out for messages claiming to be from the DMV. 'These scammers flood phones with these texts, hoping to trick unsuspecting New Yorkers into handing over their personal information,' said New York DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder in an press release. 'DMV will not send you texts asking for your personal information.' Here's what you need to know about the DMV scam texts and how you can best protect yourself: The spam texts have spanned across the United States, with Illinois, New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Florida, New Jersey, Georgia, Colorado, Vermont, Texas, and California among the states that have issued alerts. Though their advisories differ, all authority boards have made clear that the DMV does not, and will not, send customers unsolicited requests for payments and personal information. In Illinois, Secretary of State Alexander Giannoulias issued a stark warning, stating that the Illinois DMV will only send out text messages for appointment reminders. 'Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,' Giannoulias said. In Florida, the state DMV has created a webpage to alert drivers about the scam, reminding locals that the FLDMV 'will never contact you via text message demanding payment or threatening suspension or arrest.' Some local police and civic associations in states like New York and New Jersey have posted warnings across social media, too. The Warren Township Police Department in New Jersey shared a notice on Facebook on May 31, alerting locals of the 'recent increase' in the scam texts. According to screenshot examples placed on government websites, the texts vary state-by-state, but they tend to include a warning that if the recipient does not pay an outstanding traffic ticket, they will encounter a penalty. Recipients are told they could lose their vehicle registration or driving privileges, potentially see a toll booth charge increase, see their credit score impacted, or even risk prosecution. Some of the websites—the "click here" links—listed in the text messages include terms mirroring '.gov' in an effort to appear legitimate. In New Jersey, many of the scam messages have included links involving variations of "ezpassnj." 'New Jersey State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on May 30,' one spam text circulating New Jersey stated, according to a screenshot shared in a warning by the City of Linden. The scam message continued: 'Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket… Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license dispensation and further legal disputes.' The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a website with consumer advice, which suggests various steps people can take to protect themselves from text message scams. First, those who receive the text can copy the message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM), which could allow your provider to 'block similar messages in the future.' People can also report it to the FTC directly on the government website. In general, the DMVs of these multiple states advise their citizens to be cautious of all communications they receive, even if those messages come from claimed 'trusted sources,' and to never send personal and sensitive information via text or email. In its public notice, the Warren Township Police Department advised recipients of the text scam to follow four key steps: Delete the message immediately Do NOT click any links or provide any information Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at If you're unsure about your DMV status, visit the official DMV website directly or contact them by phone Generally speaking, scammers are known for creating a sense of urgency, often giving a deadline or listing serious consequences—such as the loss of driving privileges, in this case—in order to prompt a swift response from victims. David Brumley, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Carnegie Mellon University, told TIME in 2024 that the best way to protect yourself from scams is to be alert and, if you are unsure if a text is legitimate, call the department or business directly to confirm, before taking any further action. Murat Kantarcioglu, a professor of computer science at Virginia Tech, told TIME earlier this year that people should also make sure they are informing their older relatives of any prevalent scams, as they may be less tech-savvy and more vulnerable. 'I think everyone should make it their mission to educate the older people in their family about these issues,' said Kantarcioglu, adding that it's best not to answer text messages from unverified senders or engage in phone conversations with people you don't know. Contact us at letters@
CBS News
3 days ago
- General
- CBS News
New York DMV warns of new "scam" text giving final notice for unpaid traffic tickets
Have you received a text message demanding money for an unpaid traffic ticket? The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is warning drivers to beware of what it says is a new "phishing scam." The DMV posted an example of the texts people are getting. The "final notice" message claims the recipient is subject to penalties under "New York State Administrative code 15c-16.003" if they don't make a payment. The text says the DMV will suspend their car registration, take away their driving privileges for 30 days and be charged a 35% service fee at toll booths. It also warns of potential prosecution and an impact on the driver's credit score. The New York State DMV says this is what the phishing text message looks like. New York State DMV "These scammers flood phones with these texts, hoping to trick unsuspecting New Yorkers into handing over their personal information," DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said in a statement. "DMV will not send you texts asking for your personal information." Earlier this year, the E-ZPass NY system warned that a congestion pricing scheme was tricking drivers into paying for tolls via text. New Jersey DMV text Drivers across the country have been targeted by similar messages this year. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation sent out a warning to residents this week, as did New Jersey authorities. The New Jersey Cybersecurity & Communications Integration Cell said there have been several reports of people getting the phishing texts in the past week. "This SMiShing scheme is similar to others that have circulated impersonating NJ toll services and EZ-Pass claiming the user has an outstanding toll that needs to be paid to avoid a late fee," the agency said in a statement. How to avoid scam texts The New York DMV and the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission are telling drivers that they will not try to collect payments via text message. They say residents should not send sensitive information to unverified websites or click on unfamiliar links. Signs of a potential scam include messages with poor spelling or grammar, threatening language or a URL that does not seem legitimate, the agencies say. "If in doubt, do not click," the DMV says.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Your Stories Q&A: Is my Social Security number shown when a store scans my REAL ID license?
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — You ask, we answer! Viewer Question: I had to give my Social Security number at the DMV to get my license. Can a store clerk see that when they scan my REAL ID? No, according to the New York State DMV. Only the information on your license is shown. The Director of Public Information sent us the following statement: 'When a business or law enforcement scans a driver license, learner permit or non-driver ID, it allows them to validate the State-issued ID that has been presented to them rather than relying on a visual inspection of the document. That scan only gives the business or law enforcement information that is already on the ID card that has been presented. That information does not include your social security number. Nothing changes with someone having a REAL ID or Enhanced ID.' A spokesperson for Tops Friendly Markets told NewsChannel 9 that when cashiers scan a license, they can only see that a person's date of birth has been verified. Submit a form. Your Stories Q&A: Is my Social Security number shown when a store scans my REAL ID license? Your Stories Q&A: When will the new Chick-fil-A open in DeWitt? Your Stories Q&A: When will the rough ramp near Destiny USA get repaired? Do you need a REAL ID by May 7? What to know Your Stories Q&A: Is Byrne Dairy still replacing former TK Tavern in Camillus? Your Stories Q&A: An update on the future of Beck's Hotel in Mexico Your Stories Q&A: When will new comfort food restaurant open in Bridgeport? Your Stories Q&A: $100 million golf course community planned at former Syracuse country club Your Stories Q&A: Utica bakery known for its half-moon cookies opening spot in Manlius After nearly two weeks, hot water returns to Nob Hill Apartments building Your Stories Q&A: A burning question about a flame in Oneida Nob Hill Apartments tenants continue to live without hot water after two weeks Your Stories Q&A: Opening date announced for Salina Starbucks Your Stories Q&A: Something new on the menu for the former Ponderosa in Salina Your Stories Q&A: When will construction finish on the old Hilltop Restaurant and bowling alley in Skaneateles Your Stories Q&A: Dispute over repairing potholes leads to DeWitt, Salina road being closed Your Stories Q&A: Why did the Traveling Gnome Diner in Bridgeport close? Your Stories Q&A: When will trash be cleared from area interstates? Preble's cemetery takes a huge hit and seeks the community's help Your Stories Q&A: What's the latest on plans to redevelop the old Great Northern Mall? Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Newsweek
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Can You Fly Without a REAL ID After May 7 Deadline? What to Know
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The time has come: REAL ID will finally be implemented in less than one week, about 20 years after it was initially proposed. Why It Matters The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation for the federal government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses." It will officially go into effect May 7 and affect domestic travelers flying within the United States. Americans and permanent residents will only be able to pass through airport security or enter some federal government buildings if they have a REAL ID or another valid form of identification, such as a passport or Enhanced Driver's Licenses and identification cards (EDL/EID) issued in the following states: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington. Individuals may still be able to board if all security guidelines are met, but that's no guarantee. Such travelers should expect delays and possible refusal altogether. What To Know The Department of Homeland Security on its website issued the following guidance: "Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (i.e. Passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint." An employee checks people in at the New York State DMV on April 28, 2025 in New York City. An employee checks people in at the New York State DMV on April 28, 2025 in New York City. Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images The DHS says that noncompliant cards must clearly state that they are not acceptable for REAL ID purposes and be differentiated from compliant cards with a unique design or color. It also "cautions against assuming that possession of a noncompliant card indicates the holder is an undocumented individual," adding that individuals may obtain noncompliant cards for many reasons unrelated to lawful presence. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) spokesperson Robert Langston told Newsweek on Thursday: "We are actively encouraging passengers who do not have either a state-issued REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID to give themselves plenty of time for additional screening at TSA checkpoints," . "Those over 18 years old without a REAL ID compliant credential may face delays and, in very rare instances, when a passenger's identity cannot be verified, they may be denied entry into the secure area of the airport, he added. "Though REAL ID compliant Enhanced IDs are issued in a limited number of border states, they are recognized nationally as compliant with the REAL ID Act." Langston previously told Newsweek that the rollout for REAL ID implementation has been smooth and that TSA has "no concerns" due to the efforts made by states' motor vehicle bureaus nationwide. He then advised those without REAL ID or similar should arrive at airports about 3 hours prior to a flight to ensure they get through security." There were concerns in some pockets of the country earlier this year regarding not being able to make appointments for days or weeks at a time, as the rush to be legally compliant increased. In its final rule issued January 14, 2025, the TSA said that agencies' plans "may include an initial phase during which warning notices are issued and/or a phase involving progressive enforcement measures—such as a 'three-strikes' system or other methods—that enable agencies to begin enforcement without immediately denying access to individuals with noncompliant identification on the card-based enforcement deadline." REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card. The DHS warns that if a card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won't be accepted as proof of identity to board commercial aircraft. These symbols will show authorities that a license has been upgraded through REAL ID. These symbols will show authorities that a license has been upgraded through REAL ID. US Government States such as Michigan, even with residents with enhanced IDs being compliant, have seen drastic upticks in REAL ID sign-ups. More than 74 percent of people with a Michigan driver's license or ID had upgraded to a REAL ID as of April 16, according to the Michigan Department of State. Since March 18, state offices have added more than 35,000 extra appointments to accommodate demand and are operating more than 10 percent over normal capacity. The Michigan's REAL ID conversion rate for the week of April 7 was 62 percent—an increase of about 40 percent compared to the same week in 2024, when just 19 percent converted IDs. "There is no discrepancy [in the law] since the enhanced license is automatically REAL ID compliant," Samantha May, a spokesperson for the Michigan State Department, told Newsweek on Thursday. "If a Michigan resident has an enhanced ID, they are REAL ID compliant and are not expected to face delays at the airport after the deadline. Michigan enhanced licenses/IDs have a REAL ID star on them, just like other Michigan REAL ID compliant licenses/IDs." A New York DMV spokesperson told Newsweek on Thursday that 6.9 million New Yorkers now have a REAL ID-compliant documents, or about 45 percent of the population with a New York State permit, license or nondriver ID. In addition, 12.7 million New Yorkers have a passport, which is REAL ID-compliant. "DMV offices have been extremely busy, and we have added Saturday hours at some locations and opened up Thursdays for REAL ID-only transactions to help handle the applications," the spokesperson said. "Enhanced permits, licenses and nondriver IDs are REAL ID-compliant and can be used for domestic flights as we communicate regularly to our customers to avoid confusion." However, national rates still show gaps in Americans converting to REAL ID. In January 2024, about 56 percent of driver's licenses and IDs in circulation nationwide complied with the new protocols, according to the Federal Register. DHS estimates that 61.2 percent of driver's licenses and IDs will be REAL ID-compliant by May 7. "There is a real possibility disruptions … could occur if all agencies begin full enforcement on the deadline," the Federal Register website reads. "Additionally, even if population-wide adoption rates are significantly higher than they are currently, these outcomes may nonetheless unfold if adoption rates remain low in specific states or amongst specific groups of individuals." Those with TSA PreCheck will also have to abide by REAL ID compliance. What People Are Saying New York DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder on April 23: "As the deadline to get a REAL ID gets closer, take a moment to think about when you next plan to travel on a plane within the U.S. Once you visit our office and complete the paperwork, it takes about two weeks to get your new license. Give yourself time to get the REAL ID before your next flight. You do not have to rush to a DMV office to get one before May 7 if you're not planning to fly soon. You will be able to get one after the deadline." Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson on April 16: "It's great to see so Michiganders making sure they get their REAL ID before the May 7 deadline. While Michigan is already well above the national average for REAL ID compliance, the recent uptick in appointments is proof that residents are taking the necessary steps to avoid potential travel delays in the future." What Happens Next If your current license is not Real ID-compliant, you'll need to make an appointment with your local office and bring your current form of ID, a valid, unexpired U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other proof of legal presence document, and a certified legal name-change document if your name is different from what is on your birth certificate. A full list of acceptable forms of identification can be found here.
