WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOT NUMBER IS STOLEN

Spam targeting trucking companies is on the rise, and many carriers are experiencing the impact. Recently, carriers have reported the following:

• Receiving emails asking them to click links to verify email changes in their FMCSA portal.
• Receiving emails from fake brokers requesting pictures of their IDs.
• Unexplained changes to email addresses on the MCS-150 webpage.

These are all signs that scammers may be attempting to steal your DOT#.

Why Do Scammers Steal DOT Numbers?

Scammers use stolen DOT#s to book loads under your authority that never end up getting delivered. They then sell these loads for profit, leaving you to face the financial and legal fallout. Scammers often hijack your DOT# by changing the email or personal information in your FMCSA portal. This is why they request your driver’s license—to gain access to your sensitive information. These changes can be made online or through paper forms.

Consequences Of Stolen DOT Numbers

Unfortunately, trucking businesses who’ve had their DOT# stolen do face very serious and immediate consequences, including:

1. Reputation Damage
   Shippers and brokers may hold your company accountable for the non-delivered loads, as the fraudulent activity appears to originate from your DOT number.
   
   
2. Financial Liability
   You could face financial claims or lawsuits from affected parties. Even though you didn't commit the fraud, some affected parties may initially seek reimbursement or damages from your company.
   
   
3. FMCSA Compliance Issues
   The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) may flag your DOT number, leading to possible audits or even suspension if fraudulent activities are reported under your authority.
   
   
4. Insurance Impact
   Claims resulting from the fraud could affect your insurance premiums or result in policy complications.
   
   
5. Operational Disruption
   Your legitimate operations might be disrupted as brokers and shippers become wary of working with your company.

How To Check If Your DOT Number Is Stolen?

If you suspect that your DOT# is stolen, you can check by doing one of the following:

1. Login onto the MCS-150 website to confirm that your email address is still yours and valid
2. Check the FMCSA database to see if your DOT is associated with an active carrier that isn’t you
   
   

What To Do If Your DOT Number Was Stolen?

If you are receiving unexpected compliance violations or are having issues booking loads, your DOT number may be stolen. If that is the case, you should follow the following instructions to keep you and your business safe:

1. Report the Fraud Immediately

• FMCSA: File a complaint with the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database to report the hijacking.
• Local Authorities: Notify law enforcement to investigate the fraud.
• Brokers and Shippers: Inform affected brokers and shippers that the fraud was unauthorized.

2. Freeze Activities Using Your DOT Number
   Temporarily suspend your DOT number via the FMCSA's portal to prevent further fraudulent activity.
   
   
3. Notify Your Insurance Provider
   Inform your insurance company about the fraud. They can assist in mitigating potential claims or lawsuits.
   
   
4. Audit Your DOT and MC Records
   Check your FMCSA registration and SAFER profile for unauthorized changes (e.g., email, phone number, or physical address). Also, make sure to update your contact details to secure your account.
   
   
5. Strengthen Account Security
   Change your login credentials for FMCSA and Unified Registration System (URS) accounts. Make sure to use strong, unique passwords.
   
   
6. Communicate Transparently
   Contact shippers and brokers proactively to explain the situation. Provide evidence (i.e., police reports) to demonstrate your company’s innocence. 
   
   
7. Seek Legal Assistance:
   Hire an attorney experienced in transportation law to handle liability claims, assist with reporting, and defend your company's reputation.

How To Prevent Your DOT Number From Being Stolen

Fortunately, there are ways to outsmart scammers and keep your DOT number safe.

1. Monitor Your DOT Profile
   Regularly check your DOT and MC numbers on FMCSA's SAFER system for any changes.
   
   
2. Educate Employees
   Train staff to recognize phishing attempts and secure sensitive information.
   
   
3. Use Email Authentication
   Implement SPF, DKIM, and DMARC on your company email domain to prevent spoofing.
   
   
4. Secure Your Systems
   Use robust cybersecurity measures to protect your data.

If you have any questions regarding the security of your DOT number, don’t hesitate to give our experts a call at 605-332-5802.