Authorities are warning E-ZPass users about a rising scam involving fraudulent text messages, emails, and phone calls that claim they owe unpaid toll fees. The New Jersey E-ZPass service has issued an official statement alerting customers to be cautious of these deceptive messages, which falsely claim that failure to pay will lead to a report being sent to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 12 hours.
How the Scam Works
The scam begins when an individual receives a text message from an entity calling itself the “Toll Roads Team.” The message typically states that the recipient has an unpaid toll violation and must resolve it immediately. A link included in the message directs users to a fraudulent website designed to look like an official toll collection agency.
Once on the website, users are prompted to enter sensitive personal details, including their credit card information. Scammers use this data to commit financial fraud, draining accounts or making unauthorized purchases. These fraudulent messages may also come via email or automated phone calls, urging victims to take immediate action to avoid penalties.
Authorities Urge the Public to Stay Vigilant
To prevent falling victim to this scam, officials urge E-ZPass users and all motorists to remain cautious when receiving such messages. Here are some recommended actions to protect yourself:
- Do Not Click on Any Links – If you receive a suspicious message about an unpaid toll, do not engage with it. Avoid clicking on any links or providing any information.
- Use ‘Report Junk’ or ‘Report Spam’ Features – Mobile users can help their service providers detect fraudulent messages by reporting them as spam or junk.
- Delete the Message – After reporting it, remove the message from your phone to prevent any accidental clicks.
- Verify with Official Sources – If you are uncertain about a toll balance, visit the official E-ZPass website by typing the URL manually into your browser.
What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted
If you believe you have fallen for this scam or entered your information on the fraudulent site, take the following steps immediately:
- Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Provider – If you share your financial information, notify your bank or credit card company right away to freeze or monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
- Change Your Passwords – If you use the same login credentials elsewhere, update your passwords to prevent potential identity theft.
- Report the Incident to Authorities – Victims can file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
Why This Scam Is Dangerous
These scams prey on fear and urgency, tricking victims into handing over their financial details. Many people trust messages from organizations like E-ZPass, making them more likely to respond quickly without verifying the legitimacy of the request. The impact of falling for such a scam can range from unauthorized transactions to full-blown identity theft.
Recognizing Red Flags in Scam Messages
Scam messages often have telltale signs that can help users identify them as fraudulent:
- Urgency and Threats – Messages that claim you must act immediately to avoid penalties.
- Generic Greetings – Official toll agencies usually address customers by their registered name, not as “User” or “Dear Customer.”
- Unusual Links – Hover over the link (without clicking) to see if it leads to a suspicious URL.
- Grammar or Spelling Errors – Legitimate companies maintain professional communication standards, while scam messages often contain mistakes.
Final Reminder: Stay Alert and Report Suspicious Activity
Authorities continue to track these fraudulent activities, but public awareness is the best defence. If you receive a suspicious message about an unpaid toll, report it and inform others to prevent further scams. Stay vigilant, protect your personal information, and always verify before taking action.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
