April 9, 2026— Alexi Giannoulias is warning residents about a new wave of scam texts and phone calls impersonating the Secretary of State’s office.
Officials say the messages claim recipients have unpaid tolls and threaten penalties, including fines, license suspension, or legal action if payment is not made.
Giannoulias emphasized that the Secretary of State’s office does not send texts or make calls requesting payment or threatening enforcement. The office has launched a consumer awareness campaign urging residents not to click on suspicious links.
Authorities say scammers are using urgency and fear to pressure people into sharing personal information or sending money.
Residents who receive suspicious messages are encouraged to avoid clicking links, not provide personal information, and report the scam by emailing screenshots to the Secretary of State’s office.
Officials say legitimate text messages from the office are limited to appointment reminders only.
