Real ID is here, and with it there’s a wave of real scams.
You’ll need a Real ID to fly domestically and to enter a federal building or a secure facility. It’s considered to be a more enhanced version of your typical driver’s license.
But good luck getting one. First, you have to appear in person at your local DMV. Unfortunately, waits by appointment are months long right now. That’s where bad actors come in.
Everyone is scrambling, and that’s going to play right in to the fraudsters hands.Jeff Taylor, head of Commercial Fraud Forensics at Regions Bank
What is a Real ID scam?
The Real ID scam goes like this: scammers set up fake websites to take advantage of those looking to expedite the process. Take that a step further and you’re likely to get emails of offers with quick turnarounds that promise you the moon and instead deliver financial whiplash by obtaining personal or banking information they have no right to have.
Security experts predict more methods of scams as people grow more frustrated.
“Everyone is scrambling, and that’s going to play right in to the fraudsters hands,” said Jeff Taylor, head of Commercial Fraud Forensics at Regions Bank. “People will look for any resource to help secure a Real ID so they can travel this summer.”
Keep this in mind: You can still fly with a valid passport until you get one.
Getting one will take patience. The Better Business Bureau warns that obtaining a Real ID any way other than in person is likely a scam.
With that in mind, consider these common-sense tips regarding Real ID scams:
How to protect yourself from Real ID scams
- Know before you go – A Real ID or Real ID-compliant driver’s license (called a Star ID in Alabama, for instance) is needed for domestic flights. A passport will also work.
- Make an appointment – According to the BBB: “If you see a website offering REAL ID without an in-person visit to the DMV, it’s probably fake. Do not enter your information and report the website to BBB Scam Tracker.”
- Avoid quick fixes – Similarly, that email or text message offering to help? Don’t click on any links.
- Safeguard your personal information – The BBB points this out: “If you are asked to provide additional information, such as bank account or credit card numbers, that is a red flag of a scam.”
- If you fall victim – Report it to law enforcement, including at FTC.gov.
“Fraudsters use a sense of urgency to pull people in,” said Sue Ross, head of Fraud Prevention at Regions Bank. “The deadline, as Jeff stated, plays right in to fraudsters hands. Stay cautious and ensure you follow your state’s guidance on how to obtain a real Real ID.”
More Information from The Department of Homeland Security
Additional Resources from Regions.com
Related Articles from Doing More Today
The information presented is general in nature and should not be considered, legal, accounting or tax advice. Regions reminds its customers that they should be vigilant about fraud and security and that they are responsible for taking action to protect their computer systems. Fraud prevention requires a continuous review of your policies and practices, as the threat evolves daily. There is no guarantee that all fraudulent transactions will be prevented or that related financial losses will not occur. Visit regions.com/STOPFRAUD or speak with your Banker for further information on how you can help prevent fraud.