Kearns warns motorists of new text messaging scam

2 min read

  

Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns is alerting residents about a new text message phishing scheme that is circulating across Erie County. The text messages include a link that claims to direct consumers to a page that will provide information of overpayment to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV). The link then prompts individuals to confirm their email in an embedded link in order to acquire a refund.

Phishing is an attempt by scammers to acquire sensitive personal information from unsuspecting users by disguising themselves as trustworthy businesses, organizations or individuals, such as a government agency like the NYS DMV. Scammers use this information to steal people’s identities or trick them into installing malicious software, known as malware, onto internet-connected devices such as their cell phone.

“I want residents to know that the Erie County Auto Bureau or the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles will never solicit your private information via email, text or over the phone,” said County Clerk Mickey Kearns. “If you receive such a fraudulent message, please ignore and delete such requests.”

Phishing attacks are big business and are one of the most common online scams. They often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment and can be carried out through emails, text messages, phone solicitations, fraudulent social media accounts or websites.

The most common indicators of a phishing attempt usually involve tone, grammar and urgency in a text message or email subject line. Major warning signs are an unfamiliar greeting, grammatical errors and misspelled words.

County Clerk Kearns states, “The best way to protect yourself from an attack is to be aware, avoid opening or responding and delete the messages immediately. If possible, you can block the number or email address from your device to prevent further contact.”

“The safest way to conduct your DMV business is at your local Erie County Auto Bureau. Appointments are required. However, same day or next day appointments are currently being accepted at all area branches,” added Kearns.

Appointments can be made 24/7 online at erie.gov/clerk/autobureau. For those without internet access or require a reasonable accommodation can contact the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864 during normal business hours and a representative will assist you.