Consumers Targeted by Fraudulent Texts Claiming Unpaid Tolls
In recent months, scammers have been targeting motorists with fraudulent text messages claiming they owe unpaid tolls. These deceptive messages, designed to look like official communications, direct recipients to fake websites where they are asked to provide payment details.
Authorities warn that these scams are part of a broader cybercrime trend aimed at stealing financial and personal information from unsuspecting consumers.
How the Scam Works
Victims report receiving text messages stating they have overdue toll charges that must be paid immediately to avoid fines or penalties. The message typically includes a link leading to a website that mimics official toll agencies. Once on the site, users are prompted to enter their credit card information, which is then stolen by fraudsters.
Some versions of the scam even display fake case numbers or threats of legal action to create a sense of urgency, pressuring individuals into making payments without verifying the legitimacy of the claim.
Examples of Fake Toll Scam Messages
Here are some sample messages reported by victims of the scam:
1. “URGENT: Your toll payment of $12.50 is overdue. Pay now to avoid late fees. Click here: [Fake Link]”
2. “FINAL NOTICE: Your vehicle has an unpaid toll balance. Failure to pay today may result in penalties. Pay now: [Fake Link]”
3. “Reminder: Your recent toll usage remains unpaid. Please settle your balance immediately at [Fake Link] to prevent further action.”
4. “Toll Violation Alert: Your license plate has been flagged for non-payment. Resolve the issue immediately: [Fake Link]”
5. “IMPORTANT: You have unpaid toll charges. Failure to pay may result in legal action. Pay securely now: [Fake Link]”
Government Agencies Issue Consumer Warnings
Several government agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and state transportation departments, have issued warnings regarding these scams.
• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises consumers to never click on links in unsolicited messages regarding toll violations. Instead, they should visit the official toll agency’s website by typing the URL directly into their browser.
• The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) encourages victims to report fraudulent toll collection messages through their online reporting system at www.ic3.gov.
• State transportation agencies remind drivers that official toll agencies typically send notices by mail, not text messages or emails. They emphasize that consumers should verify toll balances through official customer service lines or online portals.
How to Identify a Scam Message
Fraudulent toll collection messages often share common warning signs. Be cautious if you receive a message that:
• Uses urgent or threatening language. Scammers pressure recipients into making immediate payments by claiming legal action or penalties.
• Contains suspicious links. Fake links often resemble official sites but may contain slight spelling errors or unfamiliar domains.
• Does not specify the toll agency’s name. Legitimate agencies identify themselves clearly in all correspondence.
• Requests personal or payment information via text. Official toll agencies do not ask for sensitive details through text messages.
How to Protect Yourself from Toll Scams
To safeguard against fraudulent toll collection scams, consumers should follow these precautions:
• Do not click on links in unexpected messages. If you receive a text or email claiming you owe tolls, do not click on any links. Instead, check your toll account directly through the agency’s official website.
• Verify toll balances independently. Use official toll service provider websites or customer service numbers to confirm any outstanding payments.
• Monitor financial statements regularly. If you suspect you have entered payment information on a fraudulent site, contact your bank or credit card provider immediately to report unauthorized transactions.
• Report suspicious messages. If you receive a scam toll text, forward it to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) at 7726 (SPAM) and report it to the FTC at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you have fallen victim to a toll scam, take immediate action:
1. Contact your bank or credit card company to dispute unauthorized charges and request a card replacement if necessary.
2. Report the scam to the FTC, FBI IC3, or your state’s attorney general office.
3. Check your credit report for signs of identity theft. You can request free annual credit reports from www.annualcreditreport.com.
4. Block and delete the scam message from your phone to prevent further contact.
Staying Ahead of Scammers
As digital scams become more sophisticated, consumer awareness is the best defense. Scammers rely on deception and urgency to trick victims into providing sensitive information. By staying informed and verifying toll payment requests through official channels, consumers can avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
For more information on toll payment scams and other consumer fraud alerts, visit the FTC’s Consumer Protection Bureau at www.consumer.ftc.gov and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
