Multiple States Warn of Widespread Government Impersonation Scams

Authorities in multiple states, including Georgia, Illinois, New York, Ohio, and California, are warning residents about a surge in scams involving fraudulent messages impersonating government agencies and public figures. In several states, scammers send text messages claiming to be from departments of motor vehicles, threatening penalties unless payments are made through fake websites. Ohio officials report scams involving impersonators of celebrities or their relatives in calls targeting seniors to steal social security and bank details. California's Monterey County Sheriff's Office faced a phishing scheme with emails impersonating Sheriff Tina Nieto, prompting IT intervention and resident advisories to change passwords. Officials stress that legitimate agencies do not request payments or sensitive information via unsolicited messages. Residents are urged to verify suspicious communications, avoid sharing personal information, and report scams to authorities such as the Federal Trade Commission.