On Facebook, Instagram, and X, a purported “50% discount” offer to renew a car registration has gone viral, promising to save time and money. Everything appears to be legitimate, including shortened links, official logos, and even phony user reviews.
But after clicking, drivers are taken to forms that ask for their personal information, VIN, license plate number, and payment options like CashApp or Zelle. They don’t get the formal receipt or their new sticker after the transaction is over.
There are no outside discounts or promotions, and all procedures must be completed via the official portal, according to a recent urgent advisory from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)! However, the scam is expanding to other states and exploits the REAL ID calendar’s massive renewal season.
Scammers combine scarcity (“limited spots”), urgency (“last day to pay less”), and authority (“endorsed by DMV.org”). This is known as classic engineering. The user gives away their bank credentials in a flash after thinking they are on the official website with a single phone tap.
Social media and the scam’s dissemination
Almost anything can go viral on social media, as you are likely aware, and criminals use these sites to target profiles that search for “renew registration” or “DMV appointment.” The algorithm increases the reach, allowing them to reach more potential victims.
Alerts in your feed
We advise you to be suspicious of everything, including links to odd domains, discounts, and requests for instant payment via third-party apps. If the DMV ever offered discounts, it would be through their official channels rather than on TikTok. Keep in mind that they will never do so.
Not just lost cash
Naturally, in addition to the money lost, these individuals have experienced identity theft, fraudulent transactions, and, for instance, impersonation when applying for credit.
Additionally, they may be fined for driving with an expired registration and still owe the actual renewal fee.
Read Also: Speeders in Washington Will Now Get Email Warnings, Not Pulled Over
How to safely renew your registration?
For instance, the official portal in California is dmv.ca.gov; in other states, that verification is ensured by the.gov extension. Enter the address by hand. You can avoid a shock by never entering through sponsored links or advertisements with generic domains.
- Naturally, make sure your browser bar’s lock is closed and green before entering any banking information. Leave the website if it displays a secure protocol or issues warnings.
- The DMV, on the other hand, takes cash, electronic checks, and debit/credit cards. Since the state system does not integrate apps like Venmo, CashApp, or Zelle, if one of these shows up, start to have your doubts and leave the page.
- Use the service chat or the official number (800-777-0133 in California) if you receive suspicious emails or texts. The anti-fraud team can stop fraudulent domains by sharing screenshots.
