In May and June 2025, the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) issued repeated warnings about fraudulent text messages targeting drivers. These messages claim you have an outstanding traffic ticket or risk license suspension, and include a link to what looks like an official DDS or DMV page.
How it works:
- Text arrives, impersonating “Georgia State DMV” (a false agency name).
- It threatens suspension unless you click the link and pay.
- The link leads to a fake site designed to steal personal info or payment.
Why it’s dangerous:
The look-alike site can trick users into entering their license number, Social Security info, or credit card details.
How to protect yourself:
- DDS will never text you asking for money—always in writing.
- Always check your account on the official DDS website: dds.drives.ga.gov.
- Delete suspicious texts immediately.
Toll Trap: Peach Pass Fine Scams
What’s happening:
Atlanta-area drivers are receiving bogus texts claiming unpaid Peach Pass toll fines. These messages urge you to click a link to avoid penalties.
How it works:
- Text or email falsely claims you’re overdue.
- It links to a well-disguised phishing website that mimics the official Peach Pass portal.
How to protect yourself:
- The rule? “Don’t click. It is a trick.”
- Instead, log in directly to peachpass.com to check your account.
- Report the scam to federal and state agencies, as Peach Pass is cooperating with FTC and FBI.
Utility Disruption Fears: Georgia Power Scams
What’s happening:
Since early 2025, Georgia Power customers have reported calls and texts threatening immediate disconnection unless payment is made—often through unusual channels like Cash App.
How it works:
- Scammers may pretend to be Georgia Power representatives.
- They demand payment (sometimes via cryptocurrency, cash apps, or pre-paid cards).
- They also deploy fake Google ads linking to look-alike payment sites.
How to protect yourself:
- Georgia Power never accepts payment via Cash App or cryptocurrency.
- If you’re concerned, call the number on your bill (888‑660‑5890) or log into your official account.
- Never trust caller ID alone, and don’t click links in suspicious ads.
Imposter Phone Calls: Fake Police & Court Officers
What’s happening:
In Dawson County (and across Georgia), thousands have received phone calls from scammers posing as “Lt. Williams” or other law enforcement figures demanding payment for missed court dates or unpaid fines—threatening imprisonment otherwise.
How it works:
- Scammers use number spoofing to mimic legitimate law enforcement IDs.
- They pressure victims to pay immediately via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
How to protect yourself:
- Real police or courts never demand immediate payment over the phone.
- If you’re unsure, hang up and call the agency directly using a verified number.
- Never give personal or financial details to unsolicited callers.
- Report any contact to local law enforcement and the FTC.
Crypto Con: Elderly Couple Loses $800K
What’s happening:
In June 2025, a Gwinnett County couple reported losing $802,000 to a slick cryptocurrency investment scam orchestrated through a WhatsApp “advisor”.
How it works:
- The scam begins with casual online conversation, building trust.
- Once rapport is established, the advisor guides small trades.
- Encouraged by early fake gains, the couple invested far more—only to discover the platform didn’t release funds.
Why it matters:
- Victims in Georgia lost billions in crypto and investment scams in 2024—including $6.5 billion from crypto schemes reported nationwide .
- These scams often target older adults with personalized tactics and emotional manipulation.
How to protect yourself:
- Don’t invest based on unsolicited social contact—especially on platforms like WhatsApp.
- Check if advisors or platforms are registered with the SEC or state securities authorities.
- Treat high-return investment offers with extreme skepticism.
- Consult a licensed financial advisor before transferring large sums.
Trends & Takeaways: Why Georgia Is a Hot Spot
Georgia remains a prime target for scammers:
- Over $25 million lost in 2024 alone, with online shopping and romance scams among top culprits.
- Phishing schemes masquerading as government, utilities, or law enforcement are increasingly common.
- Vulnerable groups—especially older adults—are often targeted with deepfake videos, friends-by-text ruses, and high-pressure investment schemes.
Staying One Step Ahead: Your Checklist
| Strategy | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Verify | Never rely on unsolicited texts, calls, or emails. Log in directly via official websites. |
| Report | Notify the FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov), Georgia DDS, Georgia Power, and local police. |
| Freeze | Consider credit monitoring or freezing, especially after phishing attempts. |
| Educate | Talk to older relatives or friends about these scams. Knowledge is your best defense. |
| Register | Use resources like the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce scam outreach. |
Final Word
Scammers are evolving—so should you. From phony traffic tickets to multi‑million‑dollar crypto cons, Georgia residents must stay alert. Always verify before trusting: official sources will never rush or threaten you for immediate payment. When in doubt, hang up, delete, and report. Your vigilance can stop scams—and save more of your hard-earned money.