Alert warns that scammers are targeting CDL drivers through FMCSA systems including the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently issued a warning that “certain malicious actors” are targeting commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders using online systems including the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse.
In a January 16 notice, FMCSA reported that “fraudulent online activity is on the rise” and warned CDL drivers to be on the alert for scams “resulting in compromised CDL information for drivers, incorrect data in the Clearinghouse, and negative impacts to safety.”
See the full alert from FMCSA below.
What’s happening:
- Scammers are convincing commercial drivers to share their commercial driver’s license (CDL) number, date of birth, and first and last names. This may be under the guise of a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) resolving open violations, or an employer willing to report a negative result for the return-to-duty (RTD) test or the SAP-prescribed follow-up tests.
- Once the scammer has the driver’s CDL or CLP information, they use the information to first enter information to improve the driver’s Clearinghouse record for payment, only to later demand more payment with the threat of entering fraudulent drug and alcohol program violations on the driver’s record.
What you should do:
- Do not seek out someone to enter information on your Clearinghouse record without completing the necessary return-to-duty and follow-up testing requirements.
- If you are contacted by someone requesting that you share your CDL information, do not respond. Notify the FMCSA Clearinghouse Team.
- Please take a screenshot of the message from the suspected scammer, if possible.
Protect your PII!
- CDL information is personally identifiable information, or PII. Do NOT share your PII with anyone unless you are certain of the person’s identity and it is for legitimate business purposes.
Complete Your RTD Legally and Safely
- The required return-to-duty process protects the safety of everyone, including the CDL driver, by ensuring the driver gets the help or treatment they need before operating a commercial motor vehicle again.
- Drivers going through the return-to-duty process are responsible for vetting their SAP. Before sending someone your personal information, or your money, make sure you are working with a credentialed SAP that meets the requirements in 49 CFR 40.281.
- Don’t look for shortcuts—if you have a drug and alcohol program violation, follow the rules to get your violation resolved legally and safely.