Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is alerting motorists across the state to a surge in scam texts and phone calls impersonating the Secretary of State’s office, in an effort to steal money and sensitive personal information. This week, scammers have introduced new tactics, sending text messages and making phone calls that falsely claim to be from the Secretary of State’s office. The fraudulent messages allege that Illinois residents are behind on toll payments and threaten penalties ranging from fines and suspension of driving privileges to vehicle registration blocks and legal action.
In response, Secretary Giannoulias has launched a statewide consumer protection campaign, “Don’t Click. It’s a Trick,” to warn Illinoisans not to click on suspicious links. He emphasized that the Secretary of State’s office and the DMV never send texts requesting payment or threatening penalties.
“Scammers are using every tool they can—texts, phone calls, and fake websites—to pressure people into handing over money and personal information,” Giannoulias said. “They want to create fear, confusion, and urgency so Illinoisans act before they think. Don’t fall for it. If you get a text or call claiming to be from the DMV and demanding payment or threatening consequences, it’s a scam.”
To help combat the fraud, Giannoulias’ office has set up a dedicated email address—scamalert@ilsos.gov—for reporting scam texts. Residents are encouraged to take a screenshot of the suspicious message and send it to the Secretary of State’s office, which is working with law enforcement to identify and shut down 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 reminds residents that it only sends text message reminders for scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send texts or make calls about driver’s license status, vehicle registration issues, or enforcement actions.