Fraud Alert: Beware of License Suspension Scams

WARNING: The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) has identified a fraudulent text message scam claiming unpaid tickets resulting in license suspensions. These messages instruct users to pay via a fake website. This is NOT a legitimate DDS communication. Do NOT click on any links or provide personal information.

What You Need to Know

Scammers are sending fake text messages pretending to be from the Georgia DDS, alleging an upcoming license suspension due to unpaid fines. These messages often threaten license suspension, fines, or credit score impacts and include links to fraudulent websites designed to steal your personal information or money.

The official Georgia DDS website is dds.ga.gov. We will never request payment or personal information through unsolicited text messages.

How to Safely Check Your DDS Record

To verify your driving record or check for any legitimate notices, you can use the official DDS Online Services by visiting their website and logging into your account, where you can securely review your driving record and violation status.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Do not click on links in unsolicited text messages or emails claiming to be from DDS.
  • Verify your license status by checking your DDS Online Services account.
  • Never share personal or financial information through unverified links or messages.

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you’ve clicked on a fraudulent link or provided personal information:

  • Immediately contact your bank or credit card provider to secure your accounts.
  • Monitor your credit report for unusual activity.
  • Consider reporting the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov.

Stay vigilant and keep your personal information safe.

Examples of Fraudulent Communications

Here are sample text messages from scams. The links circled in red do not correspond to the official https://dds.ga.gov/ website or DDS Online Services (https://dds.drives.ga.gov/) URLs.

These links may vary across different scams, but they are not legitimate DDS communications and should not be clicked!

An image of two examples of text message fraud being used on the public to get users to give up payment information in the name of DDS.

Identity Theft Links and Contacts

  • Governor's Office of Consumer Protection

    Website provides tips for preventing identity theft.  Provides a comprehensive step-by-step checklist for victims of identity theft.

    (404) 651-8600 (In metro Atlanta)
    (800) 869-1123 (Outside metro)
     

  • Federal Trade Commission

    This website provides information to "deter, detect, and defend" against identity theft. Also provides helpful links for victims of identity theft.

    (877) ID-THEFT or
    (877) 438-4338

  • Postal Inspection Service

    Website contains information about mail fraud.

  • Social Security Administration

    Website provides information about and guidelines for reporting Social Security fraud.

    (800) 772-1213

  • Secret Service

    Website provides information about identity theft and many other types of fraud.