BBB Scam Alert: As DMVs move services online, scammers cash in with lookalike sites

To help slow the spread of COVID-19, state departments of motor vehicles (DMVs) around the United States have expanded their online offerings, allowing drivers to book appointments or pre-pay for services. Unfortunately, scammers are using this opportunity to trick drivers with lookalike websites that steal money and personal information, according to new reports filed by consumers on BBB.org/ScamTracker.

Here is how the scam works. When you need to change your car’s title, get a Real ID, or perform another service that you would normally do at your local motor vehicles office, many consumers will do a web search for the correct website. Instead, you find and visit what you think is the motor vehicles website to learn about their new COVID-19 procedures. Your state may now allow you to complete the transaction online, or you may need to schedule an in-person appointment through the motor vehicle website. 

But before you enter any personal or payment information, double check the site’s URL to make sure it’s the real deal. Scammers are taking advantage of the new online services by creating phony sites that claim to handle your license renewal or car title transfer. However, these cons really just steal your money and personal information, putting you at risk of identity theft.

For example, one victim thought they had pre-paid for a driver’s license renewal online, according to a BBB.org/ScamTracker report. But when they arrived at the DMV office to complete the transaction, the clerk had no record of the payment. Turns out, the victim paid a scam lookalike website instead.  

How to Avoid Falling Victim to a Fake Website

• Double check the URL before you enter personal and payment information. It can be easy to click on a sponsored ad or imposter website without noticing. Before you enter any sensitive information, double check that you are on the right website and that the link is secure. (Secure links start with “https://” and include a lock icon on the purchase page. Learn more at BBB.org/BBBSecure.)

• Be wary of third-party websites. Some websites appear to offer a legitimate service but are only fronts for a scam. Be suspicious of websites with no working customer service number and no physical address. Typos and grammatical errors can be indications of a scammer’s handiwork, too.

• Make online purchases with your credit card. Fraudulent charges made on a credit card can usually be disputed, whereas that might not be the case with other payment methods. Unfortunately, there is no way to get back the personal information you may have shared. 

• Don’t click on links or download forms from a suspicious website. Secure your computer and smart devices from installing malware by installing anti-malware software. Configure and monitor app settings for privacy and keep your software up to date.

For more consumer tips you can trust, visit BBB.org and to report a scam in our BBB Scam Tracker, visit BBB.org/scamtracker.     

Kelvin Collins is president & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving the Fall Line Corridor, serving 77 counties in East Alabama, West Georgia, Southwest Georgia, Central Georgia, East Georgia and Western South Carolina. This tips column is provided through the local BBB and the International Association of Better Business Bureaus (IABBB). The Better Business Bureau sets standards for ethical business behavior, monitors compliance and helps consumers identify trustworthy businesses. Questions or complaints about a specific company or charity should be referred directly to the BBB at Phone: 1-800-763-4222, Web site: BBB.org or E-mail: info@centralgeorgia.bbb.org

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