FBI Warning to iPhone Users: Delete That Scam DMV Text Before It’s Too Late!

The New Global Mobile Scam You Need to Know About

By: Javid Amin | 18 June 2025

Smartphone users worldwide are being warned to watch out for a new wave of fake text messages that appear to be from official government agencies, particularly departments of motor vehicles, traffic authorities, and toll services.

These SMS phishing scams, often called “smishing” attacks, are designed to trick users into clicking links that can steal their data, infect their phones, or drain their bank accounts.

While initially spotted in some Western countries, these scams are now being reported globally, including in regions across:

Europe (UK, Germany, France, Poland)
South and Southeast Asia (India, Philippines, Indonesia)
Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia)
Africa (Nigeria, South Africa)
Australia and New Zealand
Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina)

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What Does the Scam Message Look Like?

These scam texts often mimic traffic enforcement authorities or government departments. Here’s how they might appear:

Official Notice: You have unpaid tolls. Click here to pay immediately to avoid license suspension. [malicious link]

Govt Alert: Your driver’s license will be revoked if this fine isn’t settled. Click to pay now. [phishing site]

They often contain:

Threats of fines, license suspension, or jail
A link to “resolve” the issue or “verify” your details
Government-style branding or fake reference numbers

Why You Should NEVER Click That Link

Cybersecurity specialists emphasize that clicking these links can:

Install malware or spyware on your phone
Steal your banking and identity details
Track your location or online activity
Give remote access to your photos, passwords, and apps
Redirect to phishing sites that look like government portals

Countries Reporting the Scam So Far

Here’s a list of countries where this scam has been confirmed by cybersecurity agencies or telecom watchdogs:

🇬🇧 United Kingdom: Action Fraud UK issued a national alert
🇮🇳 India: CERT-In issued an advisory for telecom scam messages
🇦🇺 Australia: Scamwatch issued warnings about fake transport texts
🇨🇦 Canada: CRA impersonation scam texts are widespread
🇸🇬 Singapore: The IMDA warned of SMS impersonation of LTA
🇳🇿 New Zealand: CERT NZ flagged scams impersonating NZTA
🇩🇪 Germany: Telekom issued security alerts
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia & 🇦🇪 UAE: Users reported fake RTA and license renewal texts

It’s safe to say the scam has no borders. If your country hasn’t reported it yet, it doesn’t mean you’re safe—just that you should stay ahead.

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Why This Scam Works: Psychological Triggers

Scammers use three key tactics:

01. Urgency

They create panic. “Your license will be revoked in 48 hours,” the message says. This bypasses rational thinking.

02. Legitimacy

Messages use real logos, government fonts, and official-sounding language. They’re designed to look authentic.

03. Financial Fear

Threats of penalties or arrears force people to act without verifying.

Financial Impact of the Scam

Victims report:

Unauthorized credit card charges
Identity theft
Login credentials stolen from banking or health apps
Fake toll charges deducted from wallets
SIM hijacking attacks

Banks and telecom providers say recovering the money is difficult once it’s stolen via phishing.

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What Cybersecurity Experts Are Saying

“These phishing messages are crafted with psychological precision. They don’t need to hack your phone — they just trick you into doing it for them,”
— Anika Kumar, Chief Threat Analyst, Asia CyberShield

“We’re seeing a surge in government impersonation scams, especially on mobile devices. The only defense is awareness,”
— Dr. Tomas Ehler, Cyber Policy Advisor, EU Commission

How to Stay Safe: Cyber Hygiene 101 for Global Users

DO:

Delete the message immediately
Enable spam filters and SMS blocking
Use trusted mobile antivirus tools
Update your phone’s OS regularly
Report to local cybercrime units or scam trackers

DON’T:

Click any suspicious links
Enter payment or personal data into unknown websites
Share the text with friends or post it publicly
Call back numbers or respond to the message

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What Happens If You Click the Link?

Here’s a typical sequence:

You click the link →
A fake site opens asking for “fine payment” →
You enter your card info →
Money is stolen or malware is silently installed

In some cases, Android malware can even access your contacts and forward the scam to others, making you part of the chain.

10 Red Flags in Scam Texts

Suspicious or shortened URLs (like bit.ly links)
Threats of legal action or license cancellation
Generic greetings (“Dear driver”)
Spelling or grammar mistakes
Random international numbers
Links with .tk, .xyz, or .ru domains
Urgency with phrases like “Final notice”
Promises of rewards or lottery wins
Request for sensitive personal details
No way to verify the sender’s authenticity

What to Do If You Already Clicked

If you clicked the link or submitted any info, take action immediately:

Disconnect your phone from the internet
Run a mobile antivirus scan
Change all passwords, especially banking and email
Notify your bank and freeze the affected card
Contact your telecom provider if SIM security was compromised
Report the scam to your local cybercrime authority

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Global FAQ: Scam Texts & Your Phone’s Security

Q1: Can one text infect my phone?
A: Not unless you click the link. Just receiving it isn’t harmful.

Q2: Will governments ever text me directly?
A: Highly unlikely. Most use email, postal mail, or app notifications—never direct SMS for sensitive info.

Q3: Are iPhones immune to this scam?
A: No. All phones are vulnerable when users click phishing links.

Q4: What if I entered my personal info?
A: Assume it’s compromised. Change passwords and notify your bank immediately.

Q5: How can I report a scam in my country?
A: Each country has a cybercrime portal or telecom watchdog. Look for your national CERT or data protection agency.

Final Word: Awareness Is the First Line of Defense

This global text scam is more than just a nuisance—it’s a serious threat to your digital identity and financial security. It thrives on fear, urgency, and digital trust.

But you’re now better prepared. By staying vigilant, sharing this knowledge, and refusing to click, you help stop the chain.

Don’t click. Don’t reply. Just delete. Then report.

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