Stop Toll Text Scams in Their Tracks
By Greg Collier
The rise in text message scams has created a pressing need for awareness, particularly for drivers who rely on automated tolling systems. Scammers are exploiting this technology by impersonating services like E-ZPass, SunPass, and others to trick users into revealing sensitive personal or financial information.
Recent reports reveal a spike in fraudulent text messages, falsely claiming recipients owe unpaid tolls. These messages often use urgent language, warning about excessive fees or deadlines to avoid penalties. While the messages may seem legitimate, tolling agencies have consistently reiterated that they do not request payments through text messages or links sent via SMS. Legitimate communications typically occur through secure websites or official emails.
The issue has become especially relevant in Ohio, where toll enforcement policies have recently shifted. The Ohio Turnpike has implemented late fees for unpaid tolls. Drivers who fail to pay their tolls within 30 days will incur a $5 late fee for each unpaid toll. These changes coincide with the rollout of Ohio’s automated tolling system, which has encountered some growing pains. While the new system allows E-ZPass users to bypass toll booths at highway speeds, drivers without E-ZPass must still use cash or credit card lanes to settle their tolls. This shift has created some confusion, which scammers are exploiting to send fraudulent messages targeting unsuspecting customers.
These scams use ‘smishing’, a phishing attempt via SMS, to mimic official correspondence. They often include non-local phone numbers, emojis, or links to unverified websites. Clicking these links or sharing personal information can compromise financial accounts and lead to identity theft. Many scammers add urgency to their messages, hoping to pressure recipients into acting quickly without verifying the legitimacy of the request.
Tolling agencies and consumer protection organizations are urging drivers to remain vigilant. Verifying suspicious messages directly with tolling agencies through their official websites or customer service channels is essential. Ignoring these messages is often the best approach, as any response confirms the validity of your phone number to scammers, potentially increasing the likelihood of future attacks.
If you’ve already clicked on a suspicious link or shared personal information, immediate action is crucial. Changing account credentials, freezing credit, and contacting your bank can help mitigate potential damage. Reporting scams to authorities like the Federal Trade Commission or relevant state agencies aids in tracking and shutting down these fraudulent schemes.
For Ohio drivers, understanding the new late fee structure and legitimate communication methods of the Ohio Turnpike is key to avoiding confusion. Official Ohio websites are the only trusted sources for E-ZPass payments. Any payment requests outside these platforms should be treated with skepticism.
While it’s nearly impossible to prevent scam attempts entirely, being informed can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim. By recognizing the tactics scammers use, verifying payment requests independently, and staying calm under pressure, drivers can protect their personal information and financial security.
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