Trucking companies are being warned to watch for fraudulent emails directing them to fake websites designed to look like FMCSA’s new Motus registration system.
FMCSA said scammers have begun impersonating the Motus application and sending messages claiming that an off-cycle profile update requires immediate attention. The emails direct recipients to websites that resemble the federal registration portal but are not operated by the agency.
FMCSA Identifies Four Fake Motus Websites
The legitimate Motus registration system is available at motus.dot.gov. FMCSA identified four fraudulent addresses connected to the scam:
- dot.motusdatasboard.com
- dot.motusdatadesk.com
- dot.motuswebdeck.com
- dot.motusfunction.com
None of the four addresses use a .gov domain.
The fraudulent emails have used the subject line “Notice of Required Off-Cycle Update- Motus email” and include a button labeled “New MOTUS Portal.” Clicking the button sends recipients to an outside website rather than the official federal system.
FMCSA also noted that the agency refers to the system as “Motus,” while the fraudulent messages use “MOTUS” in all capital letters.
Scam Appears During the Motus Transition
FMCSA launched Motus on May 19 as its new USDOT registration system for motor carriers, brokers, and other regulated businesses. The platform is being introduced as part of a broader modernization of the agency’s registration process and uses Login.gov for access.
The scam surfaced while FMCSA was already making temporary changes to registration enforcement during the transition.
On September 10, the agency temporarily suspended enforcement of biennial-update requirements and paused USDOT number deactivations for missed filings due after June 1. Additional guidance is expected as FMCSA continues work related to the Motus rollout.
Those temporary changes make it especially important for companies to verify unexpected registration messages rather than assuming an email demanding an immediate update reflects a new federal requirement.
Check the Address Before Entering Registration Information
FMCSA is urging recipients to check website addresses carefully before responding to registration notices or entering company information. The official Motus website uses the federal .gov domain, while the four sites identified in the scam do not.
Anyone who receives a suspicious message should avoid clicking its links or entering information through the website it provides. Registration questions can be directed to FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660.
Suspected fraud can also be reported to the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, while local law enforcement and state attorneys general accept fraud reports as well.
The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.
Last Updated: September 18, 2026
Source: Freightwaves
