U.S. Toll Text Scam Skyrockets: Tips to Dodge Phishing
SMS toll fraud is still ongoing. Protect yourself from phishing attempts by staying vigilant and informed about common scam tactics.
The Scam Details
A phishing campaign in the USA is targeting drivers by impersonating toll agencies like E-ZPass, The Toll Roads, FasTrak, TX Tags, and Florida Turnpike. The aim is to steal personal information and credit card details.
Here’s how it works: you receive a SMS or iMessage claiming to be from a toll agency, stating urgently that you have unpaid toll charges. The language is often threatening, suggesting that your driving rights could be suspended, or that you could face additional fees or even legal consequences if you do not pay.
Although Apple’s iMessages automatically disable links from unknown sources, these scammers try to bypass this security feature by asking users to reply to the text to “make a payment link clickable”.
Phishing Sites: A Perfect Imitation
Except for the URL, these phishing sites are strikingly similar to genuine toll payment sites. However, Bleeping Computer has found that these sites only open on mobile devices and exist solely to steal your name, email address, physical address, and credit card information.
What About France?
While this scam currently targets American drivers, it could easily cross the Atlantic. With the widespread use of electronic toll collection and the development of mobile payment apps in France, fraudsters might adapt this method by impersonating well-known operators like Vinci Autoroutes, APRR, or SANEF. The context of automated, barrier-free payment systems makes it a fertile ground for such scams. Vigilance is essential to prevent the spread of this scam in France as well.
How to Protect Yourself?
Never respond to these texts or click on links from unknown sources. If you use a toll service and receive such a message, ignore it completely. Go directly to the company’s website and log into your account to check your balance.
Additionally, if you receive such iMessages, block and report the number so it can be reported to Apple. You can also report the number or file a complaint through the IC3 portal. As always, follow standard rules to protect yourself from phishing: be wary of anything that demands urgent payment, uses threats, or comes from an unknown source.
For extra protection, some of the best antivirus programs offer features that also cover your mobile devices. Likewise, the best identity theft protection can help you recover your identity and funds lost in case of fraud. Stay vigilant and take necessary measures to ensure your digital safety.