FBI Issues Urgent Warning About Unpaid Toll Text Scam Targeting Drivers
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is warning drivers about a new widespread texting scam involving fake unpaid toll notifications.
According to the FBI, these fraudulent messages, which have been reported across the country, are designed to steal victims’ personal and financial information.
Scammers pose as legitimate toll agencies, sending text messages that claim the recipient has an ‘outstanding toll amount’ that requires immediate payment. “The texts claim the recipient owes money for unpaid tolls and contain almost identical language, such as the ‘outstanding toll amount,,” the FBI stated in a recent news release.
These messages often include a payment link that leads to a phishing website designed to steal sensitive information, such as credit card details and driver’s license numbers. The FBI has been monitoring this scam since last year, with over 2,000 complaints already recorded during their initial warning.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also warns that this information can be used for identity theft, adding to the financial risks associated with the scam.
They recommend several precautions to avoid becoming a victim, including verifying the legitimacy of the message. If you receive a suspicious notice about unpaid tolls, the FTC says to contact the official toll agency directly. They also recommend avoiding clicking on links in unexpected texts. Scammers use these links to steal your personal information.
Lastly, report and remove unwanted messages. Use your phone’s “report junk” feature or forward the message to 7726 (SPAM). Once reported, delete the message from your phone.
A complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or contact the FBI’s fraud hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) for further assistance.
