A growing scam is targeting drivers across the United States, particularly in Virginia and Ohio, with fake toll payment demands. These fraudulent messages trick drivers into thinking they owe money for unpaid tolls and direct them to malicious payment links. Authorities are now urging motorists to be cautious and verify all toll-related charges before making any payments.
Scammers Exploit Text Message Tactics
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has issued a public warning to drivers about these scams. The messages typically arrive as text alerts claiming drivers owe money for unpaid tolls, often with a link that leads to a fraudulent website. The scam creates a false sense of urgency, pushing drivers to make payments quickly.
Virginia officials have emphasized that legitimate government toll agencies never send payment requests through text messages. On social media, VDOT posted: “VirginiaDMV doesn’t do this! Do not click links or provide financial information through text messages.” This warning aims to help drivers distinguish between real and fraudulent communications.
The scam is designed to exploit drivers’ uncertainty about toll fees, especially when they may not recognize legitimate charges. Scammers hope to take advantage of this confusion by urging quick action to settle supposed debts.
Ohio Drivers Hit Harder After E-ZPass Rollout
In Ohio, the recent switch to the E-ZPass tolling system has given scammers an opportunity to target drivers. Following the rollout of E-ZPass in 2024, the state allowed a grace period to help drivers adjust to the new system without incurring late fees. However, the grace period ended in February, and the Ohio Turnpike began issuing late fees for unpaid tolls.
This transition coincided with a sharp increase in fraudulent text messages targeting Ohio drivers. Many drivers were unfamiliar with the new tolling system and its billing practices, which scammers used to their advantage.
Ohio transportation officials have been quick to clarify that all legitimate toll bills are sent through regular mail, not text messages or emails. This clear guideline makes it easier for drivers to identify fake toll-related messages.
Seven Key Tips for Protecting Yourself from Toll Payment Scams
As these scams become more advanced, it’s crucial for drivers to take extra precautions to protect themselves. Transportation authorities recommend the following steps to avoid falling victim to fraudulent toll payment requests:
- Never click suspicious links in text messages, no matter how urgent the message seems. These links often lead to fraudulent websites that steal your personal information.
- Verify toll charges directly with the relevant agency using official contact information found on their verified websites.
- Remember legitimate billing practices. Real toll agencies send bills by mail, not via text messages or emails with payment links.
- Monitor your E-ZPass account regularly by checking the official website for updates on toll charges and to catch any discrepancies quickly.
- Report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM), helping authorities track and shut down scams.
- Contact local law enforcement if you believe you have been scammed or targeted by fraudulent toll payment messages.
- Report the scam to the FBI’s Crime Complaint Center to help authorities investigate and build cases against the scammers.
Official Resources for Verification
Drivers can easily verify legitimate toll charges through official channels. For Ohio drivers, the Ohio Turnpike website and E-ZPass Ohio portal are the most reliable sources. They can also reach out to E-ZPass customer service at (440) 971-2222.
In Virginia, drivers can visit the Virginia Department of Transportation’s official website to get accurate information about toll charges and payment options. The department also maintains customer service lines for every tolling facility in the state.
Staying Vigilant as Scammers Evolve Their Tactics
As toll collection systems become more advanced, scammers are adapting their tactics to exploit new opportunities. The recent rise in toll payment scams is a reminder of how fraudsters target areas undergoing changes, such as the shift to electronic tolling.
Transportation officials warn that these scams will continue to evolve. As more states implement cashless toll systems, the digital nature of toll collection opens up new avenues for fraud that weren’t possible with older, cash-based methods.
Scammers often take advantage of media coverage and public awareness campaigns about toll system changes. They use these opportunities to create confusion and increase the chances that drivers will fall for their scams.
Raising Awareness to Protect Drivers
Transportation authorities stress that the best way to protect yourself from toll payment scams is to stay informed and aware. By understanding how legitimate toll agencies communicate with drivers and learning to spot warning signs of fraud, drivers can greatly reduce their risk of becoming victims.
Authorities remind motorists that they will never request payment through text messages with links. If you ever feel unsure about a toll payment, contact the tolling authority directly using contact information from their official website.
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