Toll Scams are on the Rise: Steps to Stay Secure

Knowing the warning signs of a toll scam can help keep your money and identity safe.

Turnpike Toll Photo

Scammers are posing as tolling agencies across the country and sending fake texts demanding payment. Whether you’ve recently driven on toll roads or not, you may receive a message claiming you owe unpaid toll fees. Understanding how this text scam works can help you avoid it.

What to Watch Out For:

You may receive an unexpected text claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls and need to pay immediately. These messages often include a specific dollar amount and a link directing you to a page that asks for your bank or credit card information. This is a classic phishing scam meant to create urgency and trick you into clicking a malicious link. Not only are scammers trying to steal your money, but they may also gain access to personal details, like your driver’s license number, and potentially steal your identity.

What to Do if You Get a Scam:

  • Think before you click: Don’t click on links or respond to unexpected texts. Scammers want you to act fast, so pause and verify the message first.
  • Make sure the message is legitimate: Contact the state tolling agency directly using an official phone number or website, not the contact details provided in the text.
  • Report and delete unwanted text messages: Use your phone’s “report junk” option to flag unwanted texts in your messaging app, or forward them to 7726 (SPAM). After reporting, delete the message.

By staying aware and careful, you can avoid scams and keep your personal information safe.

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.