The Hall County Tax Commissioner’s Office is warning about fake text messages claiming to be from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). Although the office is not affiliated with the DDS, it has seen an uptick in inquiries from residents concerned about the legitimacy of these messages, according to a news release.
“We understand these messages can be alarming,” said Tax Commissioner Darla
Eden. “While our office doesn’t handle driver’s licenses, we’re here to help residents understand what’s legitimate and what isn’t.”
TAX COMMISSIONER OFFICE NEWS RELEASE:
Scam Background
According to the DDS, these messages typically claim that a driver’s license has
been suspended or will be suspended, that a vehicle registration will be
suspended, and that immediate action is required. These messages are not
legitimate. DDS has confirmed that it does not send text messages containing
links requesting personal information or payment. Furthermore, the Department
of Revenue would never notify a vehicle owner of a pending registration
suspension by text message.
How to Identify Scams
These are key indicators that a text message may be fraudulent:
Unexpected text claiming urgent action on a driver’s license
Links to unfamiliar or suspicious websites
Requests for personal information, payments, or login credentials
Poor grammar, unusual phrasing, or unfamiliar sender numbers
What Residents Should Do
If you suspect that you’ve received a fraudulent text, do not click on any links
claiming to be from the DDS. Never share personal or financial information
through unverified links or messages.
If you’ve clicked on a fraudulent link or provided personal information,
immediately contact your bank or credit card provider to secure your accounts. It
is also recommended that you monitor your credit report for unusual activity.
Please report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade
Commission. Confirmed cases of identity theft can be reported
at identitytheft.gov.
Questions
For questions regarding this scam, please refer to the Georgia DDS website for
information and guidance. You may also call DDS at 678.413.8400. For matters
related to motor vehicle and property taxes, our office remains available
to assist.