The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and its Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) have recently issued warnings about a new wave of phishing scam text messages.
These scams are designed to trick people into clicking on fraudulent links or revealing personal and financial information.
Here’s what you need to know about the Wisconsin DOT scam text messages:
What they look like: The texts often claim to be a “final notice” or refer to an “unpaid traffic violation.” Some are quite sophisticated and try to duplicate the look and feel of official WisDOT or DMV communications.
The Goal: The scammers want you to click on a malicious link embedded in the text message. This link will lead to a fake website that looks legitimate, but its true purpose is to steal your personal information (like your name, address, driver’s license number, and even credit card details).
Common Tactics:
Urgency: The messages often try to create a sense of urgency, threatening immediate penalties or consequences if you don’t act fast.
Fake Administrative Codes: They might even cite fake administrative codes (like the “15C-16.003” mentioned in your previous query, although this one is also used in other states) to make the scam seem more official.
Impersonation: The texts pretend to be from WisDOT or DMV.
Why it’s a scam:
WisDOT/DMV does NOT send unsolicited text messages demanding immediate payment for traffic violations or threatening license suspension.
Official communication regarding such matters typically comes through postal mail.
They will never ask for personal or financial information via an unsolicited text message or email.
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What to do if you receive a Wisconsin DOT scam text message:
- DO NOT click on any links in the text message.
- DO NOT reply to the message. This tells the scammers that your number is active.
- Delete the text message immediately.
- Block the sender’s number.
- Report the scam:
- File a police report: Consider contacting your local law enforcement agency where you reside.
- Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): You can do this at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Report to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): This is a division of the FBI: www.ic3.gov.
- Forward the text message to 7726 (SPAM): This helps your wireless carrier identify and block similar scam messages.
- Monitor your credit report: If you accidentally clicked a link or provided any information, it’s wise to request a free credit report from www.annualcreditreport.com to check for any suspicious activity. Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit report.
- Be cautious: Always be suspicious of any unsolicited messages, emails, or calls that demand money or personal information, especially if they create a sense of urgency.
The Wisconsin DMV has also stated that customers can sign up for account activity alerts and renewal reminders through their eNotify system on the official WisDOT website (wisconsindmv.gov/enotify). This can help you differentiate between legitimate communications and scams.
🔍 Examples of Wisconsin DOT Scam Texts
Fake Payment Request:
“Wisconsin DOT: Your vehicle registration renewal payment was unsuccessful. To avoid penalties, complete payment here: [fake link]”Phishing for Personal Info:
“Important notice: Your driver’s license is suspended. Please update your information immediately to resolve this: [fake link]”Fake Delivery Notification:
“Wisconsin DOT: Your vehicle registration card has been shipped. To confirm delivery, please provide your SSN: [fake link]”
⚠️ How to Protect Yourself
Do Not Click on Links: If you receive a message that includes a link, do not click it. Instead, visit the official Wisconsin DOT website directly by typing the URL into your browser.
Official website: https://wisconsindot.gov
Verify Communication: Contact the Wisconsin DOT directly through their official phone number or email to confirm if the message is legitimate. Never use contact details provided in the text.
Look for Official Notices: Official communication from the DOT will usually be mailed, not sent via text message, especially for important matters like vehicle registration.
Report the Scam: If you receive a suspicious text message, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
FTC Complaint: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov
Block the Sender: Most smartphones allow you to block numbers or report them as spam. Do this to prevent future texts from the scammer.
