Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias issued another warning to Illinois motorists about a surge in text‑message scams impersonating the DMV and demanding payment and personal information.
To raise public awareness, Giannoulias launched a statewide consumer protection campaign – Don’t Click, It’s a Trick – urging Illinoisans not to click on any links. Giannoulias emphasized that neither ;the Secretary of State’s office nor the DMV ever send text messages requesting payment or threatening penalties.
“Scammers are getting more sophisticated, more aggressive, and more convincing,” Giannoulias said. “They look official. They sound urgent. And they’re completely fake. These scams are designed to do one thing – create panic so people act without thinking. Bottom line: If you get a DMV text asking for money or threatening penalties — Don’t click. It’s a trick.”
Giannoulias’ office also created a new email to report the scam texts – scamalert@ilsos.gov. Illinoisans are encouraged to screenshot the text and email to the Secretary of State’s office, which is working with law enforcement to identify and take down the scammer websites.
What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Text:
-
Never click links in unsolicited DMV texts
-
Never send money or personal information
-
Report the message to scamalert@ilsos.gov
-
Delete the message immediately
The Secretary of State’s office only sends text messages to remind customers about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send texts related to driver’s license status, vehicle registration issues, or enforcement actions.
Riverton Parke looks to continue momentum
Parke County Community Foundation awards funds for Ritz renovations
USDA announces 2026 and 2027 enrollment for key price and revenue safety net programs, first base acre increase in two decades
U.S. Marshals aid local law enforcement to find suspect
Gov. Braun continues to deliver on promise to keep local governments whole during gas tax holiday
Indiana state forests to offer open houses
Benefit ride for Alisha Reynolds on October 24
Former Roachdale Town Marshal sentenced to probation
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance announces 2027 summer internship program
Read your FEMA letter carefully
Road closure to impact U.S. 36 in Parke and Putnam counties
South Vermillion to honor fallen mom all season
BMV branches closed for Labor Day weekend
New traffic pattern to impact State Road 63 near Newport
Riddell National Bank makes new scoreboard reality for Parke Heritage
Riverton Parke to remember fallen player
