Scammers are back at it again. This time, they’re targeting drivers with FBI warning smishing texts about fake E-ZPass toll payments. The FBI has issued a serious warning about these scams, urging people to stay alert and avoid falling victim to fraud.
FBI Warning Smishing Texts: What’s Happening?
Scammers are sending fraudulent text messages that look like they come from E-ZPass or other toll agencies. These texts claim you owe money for an unpaid toll and provide a malicious link to “make a payment.”
Clicking the link could lead to:
- Identity theft
- Bank account fraud
- Stolen personal information
Authorities say thousands of drivers have already been targeted. Don’t let yourself be the next victim.
FBI Warning Smishing Texts: How the Scam Works
Here’s how these fake E-ZPass text messages operate:
- You receive a text saying you have an overdue toll balance.
- The message includes a link directing you to a fake website.
- The site looks real, mimicking official toll payment portals.
- You enter your payment details, which go straight to scammers.
Sounds scary, right? Unfortunately, many fall for it because the messages seem legitimate.
FBI Warning Smishing Texts: What the FBI Says
The FBI warns that official toll agencies will never request payments via text messages. If you owe a toll, you’ll get an official letter or email, not a random text.
They advise not to click any links in these messages. Instead, verify your toll balance by visiting the official E-ZPass website directly.
Recent Reports Across the U.S.
This scam has been reported in multiple states, including:
New York – Hundreds of drivers reported receiving fraudulent E-ZPass texts.
New Jersey – The NJ Turnpike Authority confirmed it’s a scam.
Virginia – E-ZPass VA says they have seen a surge in complaints.
North Carolina & Texas – Toll agencies are warning drivers to stay cautious.
FBI Warning Smishing Texts: How to Protect Yourself
Don’t fall victim to this fast-growing scam. Follow these steps to stay safe:
Ignore & Delete – Do not respond to suspicious text messages.
Do Not Click Links – Avoid any links claiming to be from toll agencies.
Verify Directly – If you’re unsure, visit the official E-ZPass website.
Report the Scam – Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) or report to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
Educate Others – Share this warning with family and friends.
What If You Already Clicked?
If you’ve entered your information on a fraudulent website, take action immediately:
Contact your bank or credit card company to freeze your account.
Change your E-ZPass account password ASAP.
Report the scam to your toll agency and local authorities.
Monitor your credit report for any suspicious activity.
Final Thoughts
Scammers are getting smarter, but so can we. By staying informed and spreading awareness, we can stop fraudsters in their tracks.
The next time you get a text about unpaid tolls, think twice before clicking!
Stay safe. Stay alert. Share this warning.
