Beware of Real ID Scams
The REAL ID deadline has come and gone. If you plan to fly or enter a federal building, you’ll need a driver’s license or state ID that meets the new Department of Homeland Security requirements (or an alternative, such as a passport or trusted traveler card).
There are plenty of people who still need to upgrade to a REAL ID for an upcoming trip—in some states, less than half of residents have the appropriate license and may face long lines to get one. And where there is urgency, scammers can strike. Here’s what you need to know about REAL ID fraud and how to avoid it.
How REAL ID Fraud Works
Fraudsters have been targeting REAL ID for several years now as deadlines have been repeatedly pushed back.
According to AARP , most of these scams come in the form of phishing scams: emails, text messages or calls that appear to be from the DMV or DHS, with links to fake websites that promise to help you apply for a REAL ID or update your personal information to complete the process. These sites actually collect your data, which can be used maliciously or trick you into downloading malware onto your device.
One early version of this scam, targeting Illinois residents, offered a “driver’s license waiver” that does not exist. The Better Business Bureau is now warning consumers about a scam that promises to help you get a REAL ID online, which is not possible—the REAL ID process requires a visit to the DMV. Although some states allow you to apply online, you will not be able to complete the application without going in person.
How to Recognize REAL ID Fraud
If you already have a REAL ID, you don’t need to do anything and can ignore any messages indicating otherwise. Licenses issued in recent years (new or renewed) are already compliant, so just check for a gold or black star in the corner. There’s also no need to rush if you don’t have air travel planned: in most other cases, a valid regular ID will suffice, and you can use REAL ID alternatives for flying if you have them.
If you still need to switch to REAL ID, know that neither the DMV nor DHS will suddenly contact you and ask for personal information. Be skeptical of unsolicited messages, emails and calls: obvious signs of scams include area codes that don’t match your location and email addresses that end in .com rather than .gov. Official automated text messages usually come from five-digit numbers rather than full phone numbers or email addresses. Never click on links in messages from unknown senders.
You should also ignore any services that claim to provide REAL ID online, which will allow you to skip a trip to the DMV. This is a scam. You also don’t need to provide bank account or credit card numbers when filling out online applications—there is a fee for REAL ID, but it’s paid in person at the DMV.