In recent years, there has been a noticeable surge in phone, online, and identity theft scams. You have likely seen some of the common tactics, such as texts from a supposed “FedEx” number claiming your package has a “delivery issue” and urging you to click a suspicious link, or emails from a mysterious lawyer informing you that a long-lost relative has left you a large inheritance. Or maybe you’ve been told you’ve won a sweepstakes you never entered, and all you need to do is send over your bank information to claim the prize.
If you are a North Carolina resident, you may have recently received a text message claiming to be from the “North Carolina DMV” or “Department of Transportation,” stating that you owe unpaid fines, fees, or tolls. On June 5, 2025, the North Carolina DMV issued an official email warning residents about a nationwide text scam in which fraudsters impersonate state agencies in an attempt to steal personal and financial information. The NCDMV emphasized that it does not collect fees through unsolicited text messages, instant messages, or emails. Cybercriminals often use these types of scams to create a sense of urgency, relying on fear and the threat of severe penalties to pressure individuals into acting quickly. You can read their press release from June 3rd, 2025, for more details.
It is easy to assume you would never fall for one of these schemes. But the statistics tell a different story. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, approximately 23.9 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2021 alone. Scammers are constantly evolving their techniques, making it harder to spot fraud and prompting many to wonder: Am I at risk?
How to Actively Protect Your Identity and Assets
Prioritize Account Security
Are you still using your birthday or a simple phrase as a password? It is time to update your passwords to exclude any personal information or predictable words.
Avoid using the same password across multiple sites. Instead, create a unique password for each website. You can use a password manager to help keep track of them all and make logging in easier and more secure.
Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a verification code sent to your phone or email before granting access to your account.
If you believe your data has been compromised due to a third-party data breach, consider placing a freeze on your credit. This prevents any new accounts from being opened in your name without your permission. You can do this by contacting each of the three major credit bureaus:
It is also important to update the login credentials of any websites where you may have used the same information as the compromised site.
Be Mindful of Social Media
If your social media accounts are public, scammers can use the information you share to guess passwords or answer security questions. Making your accounts private can help protect your personal information from falling into the wrong hands.
Strengthen Your Devices
Make sure your antivirus software is up to date. This helps detect and block malware and other threats before they can do damage.
If you want an added layer of online privacy, consider using a virtual private network, or VPN. A VPN helps shield your internet activity from hackers and unauthorized trackers.
Consider Identity Monitoring Services
If keeping track of your own credit and personal data feels overwhelming, there are identity theft protection services available that can monitor your credit activity and alert you to any suspicious changes.
Common Scams to Watch Out For
Romance Scams
Have you formed a new online friendship with someone who is suddenly facing a financial emergency and asking for money, even though you have never met them in person? This is a common scam and one of the most widespread in recent years. Always be cautious when someone you do not know personally requests funds.
Social Security Scams
Scammers may call pretending to be from the Social Security Administration, claiming there is an issue with your account. Their goal is to collect sensitive information such as your Social Security number or bank details. Do not share any personal information over the phone.
IRS Scams
Have you recently received an email, call, or text message claiming to be from the IRS? This is a scam. The IRS does not contact individuals by phone, email, or text to discuss personal or financial matters. Any such message should be ignored and reported.
Medicare Scams
Calls from someone claiming to be a Medicare representative may be an attempt to steal your personal information, including your Medicare number. Be cautious, and never share sensitive information unless you have verified the caller’s identity through official channels.
Spear Phishing Scams
If you receive an email with your username and password in the subject line, the sender may claim to have access to all your accounts. This information may have been obtained from a data breach on a compromised website. While they may not have full access to your accounts, it is important to immediately change your login credentials on any affected sites.
Sweepstakes Scams
As mentioned earlier, you might get an unexpected email or phone call telling you that you have won a lottery or sweepstakes. These scams often ask you to click on links or provide personal information. Do not respond, click, or share any details.
In summary, staying vigilant and informed is essential in a world where fraudulent activity continues to evolve. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
References
- https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2025/2025-06-03-ncdmv-scam-fraudulent-text-messages.aspx
- https://bjs.ojp.gov/library/publications/victims-identity-theft-2021
- https://www.fppathfinder.com/members/guides/guide/am-i-at-risk-of-having-my-identity-stolen-or-being-a-victim-of-fraud?
