A recent surge in fraudulent text messages impersonating E-ZPass and other toll collection agencies has raised significant concerns nationwide. These “smishing” scams aim to deceive recipients into divulging personal and financial information by falsely claiming overdue tolls and directing them to counterfeit websites.
Recognizing Scam Messages:
- Suspicious Links: Scammers often use links that appear similar to official websites but contain subtle discrepancies, such as unusual domain names or extra characters.
- Urgent Language: Messages may pressure recipients to act swiftly, threatening fines or legal action to create a sense of urgency.
- Unsolicited Requests: Receiving unexpected messages asking for personal or payment information, especially if you haven’t traveled on toll roads recently, is a red flag.
Protective Measures:
- Avoid Clicking Links: Do not interact with links or respond to unsolicited messages.
- Verify Through Official Channels: For any concerns about tolls or payments, visit the official toll agency website directly or contact their customer service using verified contact information.
- Report Suspected Scams: If you encounter a suspicious message, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
While E-ZPass is not utilized, it’s important to remain vigilant against similar scams targeting local toll systems. Always exercise caution with unsolicited communications requesting personal or financial details.