Beware of Text Messaging Scams: Unpaid Tolls Fraud

In recent months, there has been a nationwide surge in text messaging scams targeting individuals with claims of unpaid tolls. These very convincing, fraudulent messages are designed to trick recipients into providing personal information or making payments for tolls they do not owe. It's crucial to understand how these scams work and what steps you can take to protect yourself from falling victim to them. 

How the Scam Works 

Scammers send text messages that appear to be from legitimate toll agencies, such as FastTrak or EZ Pass, depending on your location. These messages often include a link to a fake website that mimics the official toll service's site. The text may read something like, "Please pay your toll in Florida by March 29, 2025, to avoid excessive late fees and potential legal action." The link provided in the message is designed to steal your personal information or money if you click on it 

Some scam texts may ask you to copy and paste a link into your browser instead of clicking directly on it. This tactic is used to bypass security measures that might flag the link as suspicious. The messages can vary in specificity, but they all aim to create a sense of urgency and fear, prompting you to act quickly without verifying the legitimacy of the claim. 

What to Do to Prevent Fraud 

1. Verify the Source: If you receive a text message claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls, do not click on any links or provide personal information. Instead, contact the toll agency directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate. This will help you confirm whether the message is genuine. 

2. Look for Red Flags: Be cautious of texts with misspellings, unusual URLs, or claims from toll services in states you haven't visited recently. These are clear indicators that the message is likely a scam. 

3. Report and Delete Suspicious Messages: If you receive a scam text, there are three ways to report it:

   1. Copy the message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your wireless provider spot and block similar messages in the future.

   2. Report it on the messaging app you use. Look for the option to report junk or spam.

   3. Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

This helps authorities track and shut down fraudulent operations. You can also use tools provided by your organization to report fraudulent texts and emails. Once you've reported it, delete the text.

4. Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about common scams and share this information with friends and family. The more people are aware of these tactics, the less likely they are to fall victim to them. 

By staying vigilant and taking these preventive measures, you can protect yourself and others from text messaging scams involving unpaid tolls. Remember, if something seems suspicious, it's always better to verify before taking any action. 

For more information regarding fraud prevention, please visit our website at https://www.covantagecu.org/resources/education/fraud-prevention.