(BBB) — When coping with a disaster like flooding, wildfires, tornadoes and other weather events, victims find themselves at a loss for where to begin when rebuilding and replacing belongings. Replacing vital documents like birth certificates, drivers’ licenses, Social Security Cards, etc., is another task that can seem daunting. Better Business Bureau warns victims to beware of unsolicited offers of assistance in replacing these essential documents for an upfront fee. You could be dealing with a scammer.
How the scam works
Recently in Kentucky, following devastating floods, state transportation officials warned about fake texts offering replacement drivers’ licenses to flood victims. Some texts appeared to be from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). Clicking on the link provided in the text would have led to a fake website asking for personal information and money. Note: the real website for KYTC’s driver licensing is drive.ky.gov.
Consumers have submitted reports to BBB Scam Tracker about “lookalike” websites that offer to help with everything from updating postal addresses to renewing or replacing ID cards and documents for an upfront fee. In many instances, they later discovered they could have accomplished their goal for little or no money… and have provided personal information to an unknown third party. Learn how to identify a fake website.
Scammers also continue to call and text people stating they need to replace Medicare, Medicaid…
