Apr 11, 2025 | posted by Lily Chavez
Beware of Toll Scam Texts: How to Protect Yourself
You may have recently received an unexpected text claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls. While it might seem legitimate, this is likely a scam. Scammers are impersonating toll agencies from coast to coast, sending texts that demand immediate payment for tolls that you may not even owe.
Here's how the scam works: You receive a text out of the blue stating that you have unpaid tolls, often with a specific dollar amount attached. The message includes a link, asking you to enter your payment information. However, this is a phishing attempt designed to steal your personal data, including credit card information and even your driver's license number.
Here’s an example of a toll text scam, you might have received:
To avoid falling for this scam, follow these tips:
Don't click on any links or respond to unexpected texts. Scammers often pressure you to act quickly, but it's best to pause and verify the message's legitimacy.
Verify the message. Reach out directly to the official tolling agency through a known phone number or website. Do not use the contact information provided in the text.
Report and delete suspicious texts. Use your phone's "report junk" option to flag the message, or forward it to 7726 (SPAM). Afterward, delete the message.
By staying alert and cautious, you can protect yourself from these scams and avoid falling victim to identity theft. For more tips on how to recognize and avoid text message scams, visit ftc.gov/textscams.
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