If you live in Florida, you may have received a text message about an unpaid toll, urging you to click a link to avoid penalties or fines. But beware—this is a scam designed to steal your personal and financial information!
A new scam is targeting Florida drivers, with fraudsters sending fake text messages claiming unpaid tolls are due. These messages often include a link to a fraudulent website designed to steal personal and financial information. Authorities warn that these scams are becoming more sophisticated, making it crucial for individuals to recognize the warning signs. Here’s what you need to know about this latest scam, how to spot it, and what to do if you receive one of these text messages.
What do the unpaid toll text scams look like?
The scam texts can be more or less specific, like one out of Florida reading:
“This is an official notice regarding an outstanding toll balance on your SunPass account. To avoid the accrual of late fees, please ensure payment is made within the next 12 hours. Failure to remit payment within this time frame will result in additional late fees, and may also lead to a report being filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). [Payment Link] https:xxxxxxx
(Please reply with “Y”, exit the SMS, and reopen it to activate the link, or copy and paste the link into your browser to complete payment.)
These text messages are scams. The messages often threaten late fees or legal action if immediate payment isn’t made and includes a link to a website that closely resembles an official toll agency’s site. Once there, you’re prompted to enter personal and financial information, which the scammers then exploit. However, it’s important to know that even clicking on the link in the text message can directly trigger malware download that can infect your smartphone and compromise your data.
How to know if the text message is a scam
When it comes to spotting text scams about unpaid tolls, there are a few key red flags to watch for. Scammers often use urgency and fear tactics to pressure recipients into acting quickly without thinking. They may disguise their messages to look official, mimicking toll agency names and websites, but small details can give them away. Understanding these warning signs can help you avoid falling victim to these scams and protect your personal and financial information.
Look at the sender’s number – Legitimate toll agencies do not send toll violation alerts via random phone numbers. Official notices usually come via mail or your SunPass account.
Check for bad grammar or strange wording – Many scam texts have spelling mistakes or awkward phrases like: “Your payment need urgent. Click to resolve now!”
Hover over the link (but don’t click!) – A real toll agency’s website ends in .gov or sunpass.com. Scammers use links with odd domains like:
❌ florida-tolls-paynow.com
❌ sunpassalert-payment.info
Cross-check with your actual toll account – Log into your official SunPass account at www.sunpass.com. Call customer service directly if you’re unsure.
What to do (and not to do) if you receive one of these text messages
If you receive a text message claiming you owe unpaid tolls, it’s important to stay calm and avoid acting impulsively. Do not click on any links, respond to the message, or provide any personal or financial information. Scammers rely on urgency to trick victims into making quick decisions, so take a moment to verify the claim through official channels. Instead of engaging with the text, take steps to confirm whether you actually owe tolls and report the scam to the proper authorities.
- Don’t click the link: Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited texts. Instead, visit the official toll agency’s website by typing the URL directly into your browser.
- Verify before you act: If you’re concerned about potential unpaid tolls, contact the toll agency using official contact information found on their legitimate website.
- Report the scam: Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) and report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help combat these scams. You can report them here.
- Stay informed: Regularly review your toll accounts and bank statements for unauthorized charges.
Remember, vigilance is your best defense against these digital highwaymen. By staying alert and informed, you can keep your finances secure and enjoy your travels without worry.
Need legal help? Turn to one of Florida’s most trusted law firms
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