Although this type of scam has been around for a while, it has seen a significant rise in 2025. On a recent episode of Land Line Now, host Mark Reddig spoke with spokespersons from multiple state departments of transportation (DOTs) to uncover the growing trend. The consensus was clear: no state is exempt from the wave of toll scam texts popping up across the country.

A Nationwide Issue

According to Susan Gergen, who handles communications for E-Z Pass at the Minnesota DOT, toll scam messages have surged in recent months.

“This time last year, the text scams were a nuisance, but manageable.” Gergen shared during her interview on Land Line Now. “But since January, it’s been nonstop.”

She emphasized the scale of the issue, noting that around 50% of the calls her team receives are from people worried about potential scam messages. Despite efforts by Minnesota DOT to educate the public, scammers are still finding ways to take advantage of residents.

The scam often involves sending texts or emails claiming someone owes payment for an unpaid toll. However, these fraudsters are really after sensitive personal data, such as credit card information, which can be used in other fraudulent activities.

Gergen made a key point about Minnesota’s toll system, which operates as a closed system without video or license plate tolling. This makes it clear that only registered users will receive legitimate bills. Importantly, she stated, “Our agency does not contact users via text messages.”

This is true for other states as well. Gergen added, “If you’re traveling somewhere else, none of the E-Z Pass or tolling facilities that I know of use email or text to request payment or personal information.”

For states with video-based or license plate tolling systems, official unpaid toll notifications are sent through traditional mail, featuring itemized bills and agency letterhead.

The Scammers’ Tactics

Lauren McLaughlin, assistant communications manager for Washington DOT, underscored how widespread this scam has become.

“This is not just a Washington state thing; this is industry-wide,” McLaughlin said. “Across the country, these scammers are impersonating tolling agencies, and they’re sending messages that create a sense of urgency.”

One of the biggest red flags in these scams is urgency. Fraudulent messages often threaten legal action or claim you’ll face consequences unless you pay immediately. On the other hand, legitimate toll agencies provide multiple ways to make payments and generally give a 30-day window to settle unpaid bills.

“I would go as far as to say that no legitimate business would text or email you for personal or sensitive information,” Gergen said. “If it’s a legitimate business, that’s not how they’re going to work with you as a customer.”

While some tolling agencies allow users to opt in to receive account-related text updates, representatives clarified that collecting payments or resolving overdue bills through text messages isn’t standard practice.

States Without Toll Roads Are Not Exempt

Even states without toll roads, such as Missouri and Oregon, are targeted by scammers.

Oregon DOT spokesperson Chris Crabb exposed the fraudulent nature of these messages, saying, “There isn’t even a tolling program in Oregon. These are 100% fake messages and phishing scams.”

Protect Yourself

The surge in toll scam texts highlights the importance of staying vigilant. If you receive a message claiming you owe an unpaid toll, here’s how to protect yourself:

• Check for Official Communication: Legitimate agencies communicate via mail with official letterheads. Be skeptical of texts or emails.

• Do Not Share Information: Never provide personal or payment details through unsolicited messages.

• Contact the Agency Directly: If you’re unsure about a toll charge, contact the agency using the official contact information on its website.

State DOTs and tolling agencies continue to educate the public and warn against falling for these scams. However, the sheer scale of fraudulent activity means individuals must stay alert.

By recognizing the tactics scammers use, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to these schemes. Remember, legitimate toll agencies will always provide multiple, secure payment options without pressuring you into immediate action via text or email.

Source: Land Line

The post State DOTs Grapple with a Surge in Toll Scam Texts appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission has reported that individuals across multiple area codes have received deceptive messages likely generated by automated “robo-texting systems.” These texts instruct recipients to make payments via fake websites.

A Clear Warning from Officials

“The Ohio Turnpike does not request its customers to make payments by text,” the commission clarified. Additionally, it noted that any collections for unpaid tolls or violations are not conducted via text messages.

For secure transactions, customers are urged to use the commission’s official websites, EZpassOH.com and OhioTurnpike.org, which are the only platforms associated with Ohio Turnpike’s E-ZPass accounts.

A History of Scam Alerts

Unfortunately, text scams like these are not new to Ohio. The commission previously issued three different scam alerts in 2024, with the latest warning being made public in August. The ongoing nature of these scams underscores the importance of remaining vigilant.

What to Do if Targeted by a Scam

If you’ve received a suspicious text message about unpaid tolls, here’s what officials recommend you do immediately:

• Delete the Scam Text: Avoid clicking on any links in the message.

• Protect Your Accounts: If you’ve accidentally clicked on a fraudulent link and provided sensitive information, contact your bank or credit card provider to secure your financial accounts.

• Report the Scam: File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, including details such as the phone number and any website links provided in the message.

• Verify Tolls via Official Channels: If you suspect you have unpaid tolls, check your account directly through Ohio Turnpike’s verified websites or customer service line.

Rising Reports of Toll Payment Scams Nationwide

Ohio is not alone in dealing with these scams. Maryland officials issued a similar warning in January about “smishing” attempts, a technique that uses text messages to trick users into revealing personal or financial information. Reports from South Carolina have also highlighted comparable fraudulent schemes.

A Broader Problem and National Message

Across the country, toll agencies are urging customers to stay alert. Last year, the E-ZPass Group, a coalition of toll agencies from 19 states, issued a statement cautioning customers about ongoing scam attempts via text messages, advising them to ensure their personal and financial information remains secure.

This concerning trend has also caught the attention of federal authorities. In April of last year, the FBI reported receiving over 2,000 complaints in just one month relating to toll payment scams across three states. Their advice to the public is straightforward—never click on unsolicited links and immediately delete any suspicious messages.

If you’d like to report a scam, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center provides a website. Be sure to include both the sender’s phone number and any links featured in the text.

Source: Land Line

The post Scammers Target Toll Users with Fake Payment Requests appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.