FMCSA Issues Fake Safety Audit Scam

It’s crucial to stay on top of things in the fast-paced world of trucking, and right now, there’s a serious heads-up from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). There’s been a rise in fake safety audit emails targeting truckers.

Understanding the Scam

The FMCSA has spotted several shady emails pretending to be official safety audit notifications. These scammers are using the EXACT same template that real auditors use, making it hard to depict the emails legitimacy. The end game? Well, it could lead us to losing money, having our identity stolen, or falling victim to the other nasty stuff.

*Two significant differences are if the email is coming from ‘.com‘ or ‘.gov‘. Also, the email signature with contact info.*

How the Scam Works

The scam emails usually play the emergency card, making us feel like we need to click on links or download stuff ASAP. But there’s always a catch — doing that might give the scammers access to our sensitive information, install weird software on our devices, or worse.

FMCSA Response

Our friends over at the FMCSA are not taking this lightly. They’ve sounded the alarm, telling us to be careful when getting unexpected safety audit emails. Legit safety audit communication comes through official channels, so if you’re not sure, it’s best to double-check before taking any action plans.

Avoiding the Trap

• Double-Check the Sender: Before clicking on anything, make sure the email is from a legit source. If in doubt, reach out to Motor Carrier HQ or the FMCSA directly for verification.
• Direct Communication: If you receive an unexpected safety audit email, contact the FMCSA or Motor Carrier HQ using the official contact info to confirm its legitimacy. 

Motor Carrier HQ
Phone: 1-866-739-2032
Email: info@motorcarrierhq.com

FMCSA Contact Center:
Phone: 1-877-254-5365

• Spread the Word: Let’s keep our drivers informed about these scams. Education is key, and Motor Carrier HQ can assist in providing valuable insights to enhance awareness.
• Digital Defense: Invest in reliable antivirus and anti-malware software for an added layer of protection against phishing attempts. (Best Antivirus Software for 2024.)

[Related: 6 Ways to Protect Your Business From Scammers]

The FMSCA’s warning is a reminder, and with Motor Carrier HQ’s insight, we’ve got a solid roadmap to navigate these potential pitfalls. By staying informed, collaborating with industry experts, and implementing smart cybersecurity practices, we can keep our journeys safe and secure.