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John,

Have you been getting these annoying spam texts recently?

They come from an unknown number, but they claim to represent tolling agencies from across the country. The scammers are requesting payment for unpaid tolls -- and often threatening consequences if you don't.

If you get one, don't click on any of the links inside.

Here's what you need to know about this scam:

The tolling scams can be especially deceptive because so many people have EZPass accounts, or accounts with their local tolling agencies. Just by sending out texts at random, the scammers can assume most of the recipients of the text will have an account and may be tricked into clicking a link.

The FBI is aware of the tolling scams and has a series of recommendations for how to handle them.[1]

* You can report any fraudulent texts you get with the Internet Crime Complaint Center IC3. Make sure to include the phone number from where the text originated, and the website listed within the text.
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* Check your account with your toll service's legitimate website. Don't click the link in the text. Search for your toll service's official site separately, and log in there. If you really owe toll fees, they will appear there.


* You can also call your toll service's customer service phone number. The important thing is to find a legitimate point of contact with the real agency, so you can be confident you are getting accurate information about any toll debt.


* Delete the spam text and report it. If you report a spam text on an Android phone, it will automatically delete it and block it. On iOS, the company generally blocks it. Or you can block it separately. You also can just delete it or report it to your carrier separately by forwarding it to 7726.


* If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.



If this EZPass scam and other fraudulent texts are piling up in your inbox, there are several ways to reduce the number of annoying calls or attempted scams you receive. Check out our guide to learn more.
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Thank you,

The team at U.S. PIRG Education Fund

P.S. All of our work to raise awareness, educate the public, and protect consumers from scams and fraud is made possible by supporters like you. You can help keep our campaigns going strong with a donation today.
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1. "Smishing Scam Regarding Debt for Road Toll Services," Federal Bureau of Investigation, April 12, 2024.
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