The Persistent Threat of Tolling Text Scams in the U.S.

This spring, numerous U.S. markets witnessed a surge in tolling text scams, a trend that has continued to pose significant challenges nationwide. These scams involve waves of fraudulent texts designed to deceive recipients into divulging personal information, leading to identity theft and financial fraud.

The Prevalence of Identity Theft and Scams

Every year, millions of Americans across various sectors fall victim to identity theft and scams such as smishing (SMS phishing) and phishing. Scammers often exploit these tactics to commit financial fraud by accessing personal information from unsuspecting individuals. Ensuring the security of toll customer information remains a top priority for U.S. toll operators. Their commitment to safeguarding this data is evident in their use of cutting-edge technology and advanced operating practices. Due to these measures, there have been no reported breaches of toll data or systems, underscoring the effectiveness of their security protocols. However, these scams still damage public trust in electronic toll-collection systems.

Understanding the Scam

Tolling text scams are particularly cunning and opportunistic. These fraudulent messages typically indicate a small toll amount due accompanied by a sense of urgency to avoid higher fees or potential vehicle registration suspensions. This urgency often tricks victims into sharing their personal information. Scammers randomly target phone numbers not necessarily linked to toll accounts or toll road usage. They have also become more sophisticated, creating authentic-looking websites and credible-sounding URLs to deceive their targets.

The Industry’s Response

From the onset, the FBI has been actively filing complaints and conducting investigations into these scams. Various state criminal investigative units are also involved, shutting down illegitimate sites as they are discovered. Toll operators have engaged national vulnerability research teams to identify and patch software vulnerabilities, such as those found in popular software like Adobe Acrobat Reader. These teams also help document and research threats and threat actors. Toll agencies are proactively communicating with drivers, warning them about these scams and advising them on how to protect themselves. Alerts are posted on agency websites, social media, and through emails. Many tolling call centers now feature pre-recorded messages about these scams. Additionally, local broadcast and news media have played a crucial role in raising awareness across communities.

Important Information for Drivers

Motorists need to be aware that toll agencies never request immediate payment or urgent actions via text message. If drivers have questions about tolls, they should contact toll agency customer service directly and independently rather than relying on third-party messages. Customers should never click on links in unsolicited texts or provide personal or financial information. Drivers traveling new routes, especially during the summer, should familiarize themselves with the toll roads on their route to avoid confusion. More information on scams and fraud can be found at usa.gov/scams-and-fraud. Complaints from others, including common scam language, are available at the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker at BBB.org.

Actions for Victims of Scams

If someone receives a suspicious tolling text message, they should delete it without clicking on any links. Anyone who has clicked on a fraudulent link and provided personal information should immediately contact their bank or credit card provider to secure their accounts. Victims of SMS tolling text scams should file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), including details such as the phone number from which the text originated and the website mentioned in the text. For questions about tolls, individuals should check their accounts via the legitimate toll service website or contact the toll agency’s customer service.

Emphasizing Digital Safety

Much like road safety, digital safety requires common-sense actions and careful attention to protecting personal information. Be cautious, slow down, and question things before responding. Small actions can make a big difference. Whether driving or managing electronic payments, let’s all strive to Be Safe Together!