Receiving a text about unpaid tolls, whether you've driven through one recently or not? It's likely a scam. Scammers are impersonating tolling agencies across the country, sending fake text messages demanding immediate payment.
How the Scam Works
Scammers may send you an unexpected text claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls. The message often includes a specific dollar amount and a link that directs you to a page asking for your bank or credit card details.
Here’s an example of what one of these scam texts might look like:
"Please pay your tolls as soon as possible. You have an outstanding balance of $12.75. To avoid a fine and keep your license, you can pay at https://paytollrccl.xin. (Please reply Y, then exit the text message and open it again to activate the link, or copy the link into your Safari browser to open it.)”
This is a classic phishing scam designed to create a sense of urgency and trick you into clicking a malicious link.
How to Avoid Falling for a Toll Scam:
- Don't click on any links or respond to unexpected texts. Scammers want you to act fast, but take a moment to pause and verify the message.
- Verify the text's authenticity. Contact your state’s tolling agency directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate — not the one provided in the text.
- Report and delete suspicious texts. Use your phone’s “report junk” option to report unwanted texts or forward them to 7726 (SPAM). Once you've verified the scam, delete the message.
By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from falling victim to fraud and ensure your information remains secure.
