Illinois Secretary of State warns residents about surge in text message scams

(WAND) — Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinois residents about a surge in text message scams falsely claiming to be from the Secretary of State or the DMV.

The Secretary of State's Office said the messages threaten vehicle registration suspension, license penalties or other enforcement actions if someone does not click a link or pay an alleged fine.

According to the office, scammers have recently improved their tactics, crafting messages that look more official by referencing fake regulations, deadlines or penalty commencement dates.

"These text messages look legitimate and are designed to frighten people into acting quickly before they have time to think," said Giannoulias. "Our office will never send a text message demanding payment or threatening to suspend someone's license. If you receive a message like this, remember it's a scam – plain and simple."

The Secretary of State's Office said if you receive a suspicious text, do not lick the link, reply or provide personal or financial information. The office said to report suspicious messages to scamalert@ilsos.gov.