ORLANDO, Fla. – As the federal REAL ID requirement takes effect Wednesday, travelers nationwide are scrambling to get compliant and scammers are rushing to take advantage.
The REAL ID Act, passed after the 9/11 attacks, mandates enhanced security standards for identification used for air travel. Travelers without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state ID or valid passport may be denied access to airport security checkpoints.
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But cybersecurity experts are warning that the rush to comply is creating a perfect opportunity for scammers.
[Watch video below on how scammers are trying to take advantage of travelers amid the REAL ID deadline]
“They send fake text messages, emails and even make phone calls pretending to be from the DMV or other agencies,” said Jon Clay, vice president of threat intelligence at Trend Micro. “Their goal is to steal your personal information.”
According to Clay, scammers may direct travelers to phony websites claiming to offer fast-track REAL ID services for a fee. In reality, these websites harvest sensitive information, including Social Security numbers, addresses and driver’s license details.
Mark Howell, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration, emphasized that REAL IDs are designed with advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting. But he cautioned that they must be obtained through official DMV channels, never through third-party websites.
Travelers who receive unsolicited messages or emails offering REAL ID services should avoid clicking links or sharing personal information. Instead, they should go directly to their state DMV’s official website or visit in person.
Anyone with questions about REAL ID compliance can visit the TSA website for official information.
