If you have just received a text message indicating you owe overdue road toll fees, beware—there’s a scam involved. Police are issuing warnings to drivers about the latest phishing scam wherein scammers impersonate state toll authorities and send false toll payment reminders through text messages with a view to appropriating personal and financial details.
How the Toll Scam Unfolds?
Scammers have been impersonating state toll organizations and sending spam messages that closely resemble authentic alerts. The messages usually:
- Claim the recipient owes an outstanding road toll fee.
- Provide a link to an imposter payment website.
- Hypothecate fines, penalties, or legal action unless payment is made immediately.
The intention is to deceive unsuspecting motorists into entering their personal and financial information, which is later used for identity theft or financial fraud.
Why is This Scam Spreading?
Authorities say toll scams are on the rise, especially in states with highway tolls and electronic payment systems. Scammers are taking advantage of:
- The increased use of digital tolling (E-ZPass, FasTrak, and SunPass systems).
- The fact that most drivers are accustomed to receiving toll notices online.
- Urgency tactics that rush individuals into paying without checking the source.
How to Identify a Fake Toll Payment Text?
The following are major indicators that a toll text message is likely to be a scam:
- It is from an unknown number or generic email address.
- It contains spelling mistakes or unusual formatting.
- It contains a suspicious link (e.g., a shortened URL or one that does not match the official toll agency’s website).
- It asks for instant payment, typically threatening fines or suspension of driving privileges.
- The toll authority does not typically send text payment notices—most official toll services bill by mail or authentic apps.
What to Do When You Get a Toll Scam Text?
If you receive a surprise toll payment text, don’t click on any links or give out personal details. Instead:
- Check the claim – Verify your toll account directly by going to the official toll authority’s website (not via the link in the text).
- Report the scam – Pass the message on to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), state toll authorities, or your cell phone carrier.
- Block the sender – Stop further messages by blocking the scam number on your phone.
- Watch your financial accounts – If you inadvertently gave payment information, contact your bank at once to safeguard your money.
How to Protect Yourself from Toll Payment Scams?
- Use official toll apps – Download and pay tolls only via government-approved apps and websites.
- Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) – Lock your toll account with additional verification processes.
- Keep current with scam warnings – Follow state toll authorities and consumer protection agencies for the most current fraud notices.
Toll payment scams are becoming more sophisticated, but staying cautious and verifying messages can prevent fraud. If you receive a suspicious text about unpaid tolls, take a step back, confirm with your toll provider, and report potential scams to protect others.
