Don’t Click That Link! FTC Warns of Toll Payment Text Scam

Watch out for that text — it could cost you more than just a toll. Scammers posing as toll bill collectors are blasting Virginia drivers with fake payment demands via text message, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) warned this week.

The DMV is urging residents to ignore any text directing them to pay a toll by clicking a web link. Clicking the link, the agency warned, could put drivers’ personal information at risk. (Photo by Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury)

Phishing schemes —where fraudsters use email, texts, and calls to steal personal and financial information — were the top cyber threat in the U.S. in recent years, according to the latest FBI Internet Crime Report. Virginia was ranked 11th among states hit hardest by internet crimes, with reported losses totaling over $265,073,590 in 2023.

The DMV is urging residents to ignore any text directing them to pay a toll by clicking a web link. Clicking the link, the agency warned, could put drivers’ personal information at risk.

“The DMV will never send you text messages about toll bills,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey in a statement. “We urge our customers to be vigilant and avoid sending your personal information via text.”

If you get a suspicious text about an unpaid toll, don’t click — verify first. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises Virginia drivers to check directly with the state tolling agency using a verified phone number or official website, rather than relying on the contact information provided in the message.

For those unsure about toll-related payments, the state offers an official hub with accurate information. The FTC also warns against responding to unexpected texts, as even a reply can signal to scammers that your number is active.

To report spam messages, smartphone users can use the “report junk” feature or forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) before deleting it.

by Nathaniel Cline, Virginia Mercury

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