Carrier identity theft: how scammers impersonate real carriers
In carrier identity theft, a scammer uses a real carrier's USDOT and MC numbers — sometimes after changing the contact details on file — to book loads and steal them or re-broker them.
Checks that catch it
- Call the phone number in FMCSA records, not the one in the email or rate confirmation.
- Watch for recent changes to phone, email or address in FMCSA records.
- Match the email domain to the company; be wary of free email accounts for large fleets.
- Verify insurance with the agent, not just a PDF certificate.