REAL ID scam alert: Scammers use fake websites and phishing schemes to trick people ahead of May 7 deadline

As the May 7, 2025, deadline for REAL ID enforcement approaches, millions of Americans are rushing to obtain compliant identification cards. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will soon require travelers to present a REAL ID or other federally accepted identification at airport security checkpoints. However, this urgency has triggered a sharp rise in online scams designed to exploit consumers. From fake websites to phishing texts and misleading social media posts, fraudsters are targeting those who may be unfamiliar with the application process or anxious about the impending deadline. These fraudulent schemes aim to steal personal and financial data under the guise of providing expedited REAL ID services.Fake websites and spoofed emailsCybercriminals have launched a variety of fake websites that mimic state DMV portals. These sites request sensitive personal data under the pretense of processing REAL ID applications. Some also charge illegitimate processing fees or redirect users to malicious links.Spoofed emails often accompany these scams. They may contain official-looking logos and language to appear legitimate, asking recipients to “verify” their identity or “complete” their application with a payment of around $35 for so-called “expedited” processing.Phishing texts and social media scamsPhishing text messages have also emerged, with messages instructing users to click on links to apply for or confirm their REAL ID. These messages typically contain shortened URLs and pressure language like “Immediate Action Required.”On social media platforms, scammers have posted advertisements or comments promoting fake REAL ID services. Some link directly to phishing websites, while others encourage users to call fake customer support lines.Consumers should be aware of several red flags when navigating REAL ID applications:If you receive a suspicious message or visit a questionable website:1. Use official DMV websites onlyTo apply for a REAL ID, individuals should go directly to their state DMV's official website. Each site has a dedicated section for REAL ID information, application instructions, documentation checklists, and online scheduling tools.2. Freeze your creditIn the event that personal data has been compromised, individuals are encouraged to place a credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. This prevents any new credit accounts from being opened in their name.3. File an identity theft reportAnyone who believes their identity has been stolen should visit identitytheft.gov. This federal resource walks users through the steps of creating a recovery plan and filing reports with the appropriate agencies.4. Monitor financial statementsRegularly checking bank and credit card statements can help detect fraudulent activity early. Setting up transaction alerts is also recommended.The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to security concerns following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It establishes minimum security standards for the issuance of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. A REAL ID-compliant card will be required to:REAL IDs are marked with a star at the top of the card. They are issued by state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMVs), but adhere to federal guidelines set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).After multiple postponements, the TSA will begin enforcing the REAL ID requirement on May 7, 2025. Travelers who do not have a REAL ID or another form of approved identification (such as a U.S. passport) will not be permitted to pass through airport security checkpoints for domestic travel.Due to this imminent enforcement date, DMVs across the country have experienced a surge in applications. In Virginia, for example, the Department of Motor Vehicles reported that REAL ID cards accounted for 61% of all active licenses as of April 2025. A total of 166,816 REAL ID cards were issued in Virginia that month alone—a 60% increase compared to March 2025.In-person applicationsMany DMVs offer walk-in service as well as online appointment booking. Some also provide virtual ticketing systems where users can reserve a spot in line remotely.