Drivers across several states utilizing toll roads have been recipients of fraudulent text messages originating from scammers intent on acquiring sensitive data and credit card numbers. E-470 Public Highway Authority, prompted by FBI warnings, has issued alerts to its users regarding the escalating “smishing” scam.
The FBI defines smishing as the use of forged text messages to deceive individuals into downloading malicious software, disclosing sensitive information, or transferring funds to cybercriminals. E-470 officials emphasize that neither their organization nor ExpressToll solicits payments or personal information via text messages. E-470 users are advised to refrain from clicking on any links contained in text messages purporting to be from E-470 or ExpressToll.
The FBI has provided an example of a fraudulent text message:
“(State Toll Service Name): We’ve noticed an outstanding toll amount of $12.51 on your record. To avoid a late fee of $50.00, visit https://myturnpiketollservices.com to settle your balance.”
Rod Taylor, E-470’s director of technology, states, “The Authority is implementing all necessary measures to maintain the security of our network and protect customer data. We urge everyone to remain vigilant against these fraudulent texts and follow the FBI’s guidance.”
In the event of receiving a fraudulent text message, the FBI advises individuals to take the following steps:
– File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov, providing the scam phone number and the website address included in the text.
– Verify their account through the toll service’s official website.
– Contact the toll service’s customer service hotline.
– Delete the smishing text messages.
Users who inadvertently click on a link in a smishing text message should take immediate steps to safeguard their personal and financial information. The FBI reports receiving over 2,000 smishing complaints related to toll roads from at least three states, indicating the scam’s potential to spread across multiple jurisdictions.
