Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Fake Toll Messages and Scam

Toll text scams (smishing) are widespread, sending fake and fraudulent messages claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls. These messages, often posing as "E-ZPass" or state DOTs, include links to fake websites designed to steal credit card numbers and personal information. Key signs include urgent, threatening language, typos, and unsolicited demands.

How to Avoid the Scam

  • Do Not Click: Never click links in unexpected text messages.
  • Verify Directly: Only check tolls on official websites (e.g., E-ZPassNJ.com) or by calling official, verified numbers.
  • Ignore & Delete: Toll agencies rarely use text to collect payments; if you receive one, delete it.
  • Report: Forward spam texts to 7726 (SPAM) and report them to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Fake Toll Message

  • Strange Links: The website URL in the text often uses non-standard extensions rather than .gov.
  • Generic Greeting: Uses phrases like "Dear Customer" or "E-ZPass user".
  • Urgency: Claims you will face legal fees or penalties if you don't pay immediately.
  • International Numbers: The text may originate from an unrecognized, suspicious, or international number.
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