Scammers are targeting users of E-ZPass, SunPass, FasTrak, TxTag, and other electronic toll systems with fake payment alerts. If you receive a text or email claiming you owe unpaid tolls, think before you click. These messages are designed to steal your personal and financial information.
How the Scam Works
-
You receive a text or email claiming you have unpaid tolls.
-
The message includes a link urging immediate payment.
-
Clicking the link takes you to a fake website that looks like an official toll payment page.
-
The site asks for credit card details or personal information.
-
Once you enter your data, scammers can steal your money or identity.
Red Flags to Watch For
-
Messages from unknown numbers or email addresses.
-
Urgent wording like "Final Notice" or "Immediate Action Required."
-
Suspicious links that don’t match the official toll system website.
-
Requests for personal information, including passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security numbers.
-
Threats of penalties or legal action if you don’t pay immediately.
Real vs. Fake Notifications
Legitimate Toll Notices:
✔ Sent from official domains like @ezpassny.com, @sunpass.com, @thetollroads.com, @txtag.org, etc. ✔ Do not contain generic greetings like "Dear Customer." ✔ Never demand immediate payment through a random link. ✔ Direct you to log in through their official website.
Scam Messages:
❌ Often have misspellings or poor grammar. ❌ Use generic language that doesn’t include your actual account details. ❌ Contain suspicious links that do not match official toll system domains. ❌ Try to rush you into making a payment.
Protect Yourself from Scammers
-
Do not click links in unsolicited texts or emails. Instead, visit the official toll payment website by typing the URL directly into your browser.
-
Verify unpaid tolls by logging into your account on the official site.
-
Enable two-factor authentication for extra security.
-
Never share personal information—legitimate toll agencies won’t ask for your credit card number or password via text or email.
-
Block and report scam messages by forwarding fraudulent texts to 7726 (SPAM) and reporting phishing emails to your email provider.
What If You Already Clicked the Link?
🚨 Take Immediate Action! 🚨
-
Do not enter any information. Close the page immediately.
-
Check your financial accounts for unauthorized transactions and report them to your bank.
-
Change your passwords if you entered any login details.
-
Monitor your credit report for suspicious activity that may indicate identity theft.
Why These Scams Are Dangerous
-
Scammers can drain your bank account if they get your card details.
-
Personal information can be used for identity theft.
-
Clicking links can install malware on your device.
-
Fake websites may collect login credentials to access other accounts.
How to Report Toll Payment Scams
If you receive a suspicious message:
-
Do not click any links or respond.
-
Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM).
-
Report it to your toll system provider (E-ZPass, SunPass, FasTrak, TxTag, etc.) through their official website.
-
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ftc.gov to report scams.
-
Alert your bank if you entered payment details.
Stay One Step Ahead
Scammers constantly evolve their tactics, but their goal remains the same: stealing your information. By staying informed, you reduce the risk of falling for these scams.
🚦 Check your toll account directly, report suspicious messages, and never share personal details over text or email. A few extra seconds of caution can save you from financial loss and identity theft.
📢 Share this information with friends and family to keep everyone safe!
Comments