Toll Payment Text Scams: A Nationwide Alert and How to Protect Yourself

A pervasive wave of text message and email scams is targeting Americans across the country, falsely claiming unpaid toll payments and attempting to steal personal information and financial data. Authorities are warning citizens to be vigilant and avoid falling prey to these fraudulent schemes. The scam involves unsolicited messages, often from unfamiliar area codes and email addresses, demanding immediate payment for supposed outstanding toll fees. These messages frequently urge recipients to click on a link or provide sensitive card information to resolve the alleged debt.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has issued a statement revealing the widespread nature of this smishing scam, noting that it has received over 2,000 complaints related to individuals impersonating toll collection services. The IC3 reports suggest that the scam is evolving, potentially moving from state to state, making it crucial for citizens nationwide to stay informed and proactive.

The tactics employed by the scammers vary. Some messages request a simple "Y" response, seemingly to confirm a valid phone number before sending a payment link. Others directly solicit personal information under the guise of verifying identity or account details. Regardless of the approach, the underlying goal remains the same: to trick individuals into divulging valuable data that can be used for identity theft and financial fraud.

Several toll collection services, including the PA Turnpike, FasTrak, and New York E-ZPass, have acknowledged the existence of these scams and are actively notifying their customers through website banners and other communication channels. These organizations are emphasizing that they do not request personal or sensitive information through unsolicited text messages or emails.

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has also addressed the issue, emphasizing the importance of public safety and urging New Yorkers to be cautious of these "senseless scammers." In a press release, Hochul stated that E-ZPass and Tolls By Mail will never send texts or emails asking for personal information. This affirmation serves as a crucial reminder for consumers to question any unsolicited communication requesting sensitive data.

The impact of internet crime in New York State is significant. In 2023, the state received 26,948 internet crime complaints, resulting in an astounding $750 million in losses. The data reveals a troubling trend: senior citizens are disproportionately targeted by these scams. The Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York further reported that over $11 million was lost due to more than 9,000 reported phishing scams in the region in 2023.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) offers practical advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of smishing scams. It is imperative to remember that legitimate organizations, such as E-ZPass and Tolls By Mail, will never request personal information through unsolicited messages. If you receive a suspicious text or email claiming to be from either entity, do not provide any of the requested information. Instead, contact the E-ZPass NY Customer Service Center directly at 1-800-333-8655 or the Tolls By Mail Customer Service Center at 1-844-826-8400 to verify the communication.

If you believe you have been targeted by a smishing scam, it is essential to take immediate action. Report the scam to law enforcement and file a complaint with both the FCC and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). These reports help authorities track and investigate these crimes, potentially preventing further victimization.

To further protect yourself from toll payment text scams, consider the following tips:

• Be wary of unsolicited messages: Exercise extreme caution when receiving texts or emails from unknown senders, especially those demanding immediate action or requesting personal information.
• Verify the source: Before clicking on any links or providing any information, independently verify the legitimacy of the sender. Contact the toll collection service directly through their official website or customer service number.
• Never share sensitive information: Legitimate organizations will never ask for your personal information, such as your social security number, bank account details, or credit card numbers, through unsolicited messages.
• Look for red flags: Be alert for common scam indicators, such as poor grammar, spelling errors, and urgent or threatening language.
• Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication: These measures can help protect your online accounts from unauthorized access.
• Keep your software updated: Regularly update your operating system, web browser, and antivirus software to patch security vulnerabilities that scammers can exploit.
• Educate yourself and others: Stay informed about the latest scam trends and share this information with your friends, family, and community members to help prevent them from becoming victims.

By remaining vigilant, informed, and proactive, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling prey to toll payment text scams and other forms of cyber fraud. Remember, protecting your personal and financial information is a shared responsibility, and collective awareness is essential in combating these evolving threats.