Why Toll Scams are on the Rise

Imagine this: you’re driving along, minding your own business when a text pings your phone. It says you have an unpaid toll balance and warns that, unless you pay up now, you'll face hefty late fees. The message looks official, mentioning trusted names like FasTrak in California or NY Toll Services. It even includes a convenient link to settle the amount. But don’t be fooled—this isn’t just a friendly reminder; it's a scam. 

Toll scams are on the rise, using sneaky tactics to steal personal information and financial data. Here’s how these scams work, and what you need to know to stay safe on the road.

How the Toll Scams Work

It all started in New York, where we first noticed toll message scams popping up, before similar texts began appearing in Pennsylvania, Oregon, California, and beyond. The messages sound urgent—pay a small balance now, or face a hefty penalty. With an official-sounding name and a link that seems trustworthy, it’s all too easy to fall for the trap. But that link? It’s a fake site, crafted solely to steal your personal and financial information.

These scammers are clever, regularly changing up their names and web addresses to stay one step ahead of detection. One day, it’s Tollspayny; the next, it’s Tollsinfo, Turnpiketollservices[.]com, tollspayny[.]com, or CA FasTrak. The names may vary, but the scam stays the same: they create a sense of urgency and authority, pushing people to act fast before they realize something’s off. The goal is simple—get you to click, fill in your info, and let them walk away with your data.

Example of a toll message scam

What Happens if You Click on the Link?

Clicking that link? It’s like handing your wallet and ID straight to a stranger. Once you’re on their fake site, they’ll ask for everything they need to impersonate you: your name, address, phone number, credit card details, CVV security code, and expiration date. This is classic identity theft in action.

With these details, scammers can wreak havoc on your finances, using your identity to rack up charges, sell your information, or even commit other fraud. It’s worth pausing and asking yourself: if a message feels off, why not verify it directly? And remember, just like an uninvited party guest, surprise charges aren’t here to help you—they’re here to take advantage.

What to Do If You Get a Toll Scam Text

Received a toll scam message? Here’s a step-by-step guide to protect yourself:

• Don’t Click the Link: The link in a toll scam text isn’t just a shortcut to “pay your bill”—it’s often designed to steal personal information or spread malware onto your device. Clicking could expose you to major risks, so resist the urge!
• Ignore and Delete: Avoid replying, even if it’s tempting to tell them off. Responding to these scammers just confirms your number is active, which can lead to more attempts and an uptick in similar messages. Deleting the text immediately helps remove the risk of accidentally clicking later.
• Check with the Toll Provider Directly: If you’re genuinely concerned about a missed toll payment, go to the source. Visit the official website or call customer service using a number you find on their website (not the one in the suspicious text). Official toll services will never direct you to pay through a text link, so you can be confident your information is safe by sticking with verified contact methods.
• Report the Scam: Reporting scams helps authorities track them, ultimately protecting others. You can file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov, making sure to include the number the text came from and any links or names used in the message.
• Check Your Account for Any Issues: Head to the toll service’s actual website and log into your account to see if any unpaid tolls or other alerts are flagged. If you need extra help, reach out to the toll service’s customer service department to clarify any concerns.
• Strengthen Security: If you’ve clicked the link or shared any information, take immediate action. Update passwords for any accounts that could be affected, especially if they’re linked to financial services. Keep a close watch on your accounts for strange transactions or login attempts, and consider using a reliable security app to monitor your phone for any hidden threats.
•  

Why Toll Scams are Becoming More Common

Toll scams are becoming more common for several reasons. Scammers often target small amounts of money, knowing that people may not care enough to fight over just a few dollars. They create a sense of urgency, pushing you to pay quickly to avoid bigger fees, which can make you act without thinking. By using names like FasTrak and NY Toll Services, they trick people into believing their messages are real.

Text messaging makes it easy for scammers to reach many people quickly. As more of us rely on our phones, we become easier targets. Scammers are also good at changing their tricks, using different names and links to stay hidden.

The best way to fight these scams is to stay aware and careful. By knowing the warning signs and what to do if you get a suspicious message, you can protect yourself and help others. Always trust your instincts: if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t!

Image source: Pexels.com