The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers to be on the lookout for scammers who are fooling people through websites that look like those used by state departments of motor vehicles.
The scammers are exploiting the opportunity created by an increasing number of people who are turning to online offerings from state DMVs, during this time of COVID-19, according to information provided by the BBB.
They are using these lookalike websites to steal money and personal information, according to reports filed by consumers on BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Here’s how the scam works: You need to change your car’s title, get a Real ID, or perform another service that you would normally do at your local DMV. Instead, you visit what you think is the DMV 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 DMV website.
Before you enter any personal or payment information, double check the site’s URL to make sure it’s the real deal.
Also, be sure to 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, the release says.
There’s also a similar scam involving change of address services.
If you have been the victim of this or another scam, you can help make others aware by filing a report on BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Published October 28, 2020
