An increase in the number of fraudulent texts impersonating toll agencies has been reported by drivers across the United States. They claim to be toll agencies and are attempting to get your financial and personal details. It is important to understand the scams in order to protect yourself against identity theft and financial losses.
Toll Fee Scams are a Threat
The deceptive texts pose a serious risk for millions of motorists. These messages can appear to be legitimate, particularly if you use toll roads regularly in states that are prone for scams. These scams can compromise your sensitive information and lead to fraud or identity theft.
There are specific alerts for toll scams in each state
The scams are targeting different toll systems in several states.
Texas Drivers are targeted in a TxTag Toll Scam
Texas Department of Transportation has warned about the increase of TxTag fraud texts. The fraudulent texts began in the spring of 2024, and they have increased since September. Scammers pose as TxTag (the state’s revenue toll service), but the real TxTag follows specific protocols. TxTag will send text messages, but the official message never requests final payment or an overdue account through text. TxTag authentic messages are only sent from 22498. Customers must opt in to receive them.
EZDriveMA Scam Texts Aiming Massachusetts Drivers
Similar scams are targeting drivers in Massachusetts who use the E-ZPass toll system or EZDriveMA. In these scams, the texts claim that tolls have not been paid and require immediate payment. By clicking the link, users are redirected to a fake website that steals personal information and financial data. Authorities advise users to avoid interacting or clicking links in these texts.
E-ZPass will never send you a text message. If you receive a scam text impersonating a E-ZPass account or an EZDriveMA, delete it immediately.
FasTrak Toll Scam Tactics In California
California drivers may also be targeted by scam texts related to FasTrak, the toll-collection system. The texts are designed to create an unfounded sense of urgency by pressuring the driver to pay their tolls before a certain date in order to avoid further fines and/or suspension of license.
The misspelling “FasTrak”, as “FastTrack,” is a telltale sign that a scam has been perpetrated. Watch out for such differences, which may indicate that you are receiving a message from a scammer.
How to protect yourself from Toll Fee Scams
- You can verify directly: To verify any questionable text message, contact the toll company directly via their official phone number or website.
- Avoid Clicking Links: You should not click any links contained in these messages. The links in these texts can take you to websites that steal information.
- Misspellings are a common problem. Look out for spelling or grammar errors, which are indicators that the message is a scam. Look for “FasTrak”, not “FasTrack”.
- Report Scams: Report any suspicious texts to both your mobile provider and the toll company.
- Watch Accounts Monitor your toll and financial accounts regularly for any suspicious activity.
What to do if you receive a scam text
The state agencies work actively to close down websites that are linked to this scam. You should report all suspicious messages to your carrier and delete them. Staying informed and vigilant will help you avoid falling for toll scams. Be aware of new fraud schemes.