Law enforcement and consumer protection officials are issuing an urgent warning to residents about a sophisticated scam targeting individuals seeking a REAL ID – a federally compliant form of identification required for air travel and access to federal facilities starting in 2025.

Scammers are impersonating the Department of Homeland Security, the DMV and other official agencies in text messages and emails, promising to “speed up” the process of obtaining a REAL ID in exchange for personal information and payment. These messages are fraudulent and are part of a phishing scheme designed to steal your money and sensitive information.

— The Scam: What to Watch For According to multiple reports received by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), victims are being contacted via text or email by people claiming to be with the DMV or Department of Homeland Security. The scammers say they can help applicants “skip the line” or “expedite” their REAL ID application but only if you click a link to enter your personal data and pay a fee online.

This is a scam. Once you enter your information, you could be handing over everything a scammer needs to steal your identity or drain your bank account.

— The Truth About REAL ID in Oklahoma

Service Oklahoma (tag agency) is the only authorized provider of REAL IDs in Oklahoma.

Here are five essential facts every Oklahoman should know to avoid being scammed:

• REAL ID applications must be made in person. You cannot apply online or by mail and there are no shortcuts to speed up the process.

• No one from the DMV, Homeland Security, or any other agency will ask you for payment or personal information via text or email.

• Never click on suspicious links. If you receive an unexpected message, do not open links or respond – even if it appears official.

• Verify independently. If you’re unsure, visit a Service Oklahoma tag agency in person or call using a number you’ve found yourself (not one provided in a message).

• Report and delete. Use your phone’s “report junk” option, forward spam texts to 7726 (SPAM) and report suspicious emails to your email provider. Then delete the message.

Officials are particularly concerned about vulnerable groups – including senior citizens, young adults and firsttime ID applicants – who may not know the REAL ID application rules.

— What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted If you think you’ve fallen victim or received a suspicious message:

• Do not click any links or reply.

• Immediately report it to the Federal Trade Commission at Report-Fraud.ftc.gov.

• If you’ve already entered information, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports and contacting your bank or credit card provider.

Scammers are becoming more advanced – often using official-looking logos, urgent language and government- style phrasing. But remember: The only way to get a REAL ID in Oklahoma is by visiting a Service Oklahoma location in person.

If someone claims they can help you skip the line or complete the process online – they are lying.

Protect your identity and your wallet. Spread the word to friends, family and neighbors, especially those who may not be as familiar with online scams.

For more information on obtaining a REAL ID in Oklahoma, visit oklahoma. gov/serviceok. html.