Beware of Fake Unpaid Toll Bill Scams
Published February 25, 2025
Scammers are ramping up their tactics, and the latest trend involves fraudulent messages about unpaid toll bills. Many consumers are receiving text messages or emails claiming they owe money for missed toll payments. These messages often include a link directing recipients to make an immediate payment to avoid late fees or penalties. However, these are scams designed to steal your personal and financial information.
How the Scam Works
The fraudulent messages typically appear to come from legitimate toll authorities, using official-looking logos and urgent language. The message may:
- Claim you have an unpaid toll balance that must be settled immediately.
- Include a link to a website that mimics an actual toll payment portal.
- Threaten additional fines or legal action if you do not pay right away.
Once you click the link, you may be asked to enter personal details such as your credit card information, driver’s license number, or vehicle registration. Entering this information can put you at risk for identity theft and financial fraud.
How to Protect Yourself
To avoid falling victim to this scam:
- Never click links in unsolicited text messages or emails about unpaid tolls.
- Look for red flags, such as poor grammar, generic greetings, and urgent demands for immediate payment.
- Double check the sender’s email address, as scammers often use personal email addresses or ones that mimic the company but are incorrect.
- Verify with your toll agency by visiting their official website or calling their customer service number directly.
- Check your toll payment history through your official toll account instead of relying on messages received via text or email.
- Report scam messages to your toll authority and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Stay Informed & Stay Safe
With scams on the rise, it’s essential to remain vigilant. If you ever receive a suspicious message about an unpaid toll, pause and verify before taking action. You can read more about this scam from the Federal Trade Commission. By staying informed, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
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As an active part of the community for 94 years, Neighborhood Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial organization serving the state of Texas with branch locations in Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Greyson, Kaufman and Tarrant counties. With assets topping $1 billion, Neighborhood Credit Union has a continuously growing membership of over 65,000. For more information, call (214) 748-9393 or visit our homepage.