FMCSA warns of recent spate of phishing emails

08.8.24 /

Ford Boswell

08.8.24

Ford Boswell is a Birmingham, Ala.–based creator journalist and communications strategist, whose work blends traditional journalism, storytelling, and creative content production. He has more than 25 years of experience across print and digital publishing, corporate communications, advocacy, and media production. He can be reached at ford@tracktmedia.com.

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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued a critical alert to fleet managers about a fraudulent email scam targeting registered entities. The fake email requests recipients to fill out forms with sensitive information, including Social Security Numbers (SSN) and USDOT Personal Identification Numbers (PINs).

It’s important to note that FMCSA’s official forms do not require this information.

FMCSA officials strongly advise against completing these attached forms and urge the trucking community to rely solely on official FMCSA documents. The scam email may also request a certificate of insurance and a driver’s license, claiming these measures are to protect against fraud. Additionally, the email falsely threatens fines for non-compliance within a day, a tactic not practiced by the FMCSA.

The scam emails appear to be sent from safety@fmcsa.gov or filing@fmcsa.gov, which are not legitimate email addresses associated with the FMCSA. Responses to the email are directed to @fmcsa-safety-fmcsa.com, another indicator of the scam, as this domain is not owned or utilized by the FMCSA. The solicited personal identifiable information (PII) could potentially allow unauthorized access to FMCSA accounts, posing a significant risk to individuals and companies alike.

For genuine FMCSA communication, requests typically direct stakeholders to log in through the FMCSA Login portal (dot.gov) or come directly from an FMCSA dedicated mailbox, always ending in “.gov.” Stakeholders are encouraged to verify the authenticity of any suspicious emails or communications by consulting the appropriate agency. Following verification procedures recommended by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can also help protect against such email scams.

This warning highlights the importance of vigilance in protecting against fraudulent activities and ensuring the security of sensitive information within the trucking and transportation industry. Always verify the source of FMCSA communications and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.