Drivers nationwide are being bombarded with fraudulent text messages claiming they owe money for unpaid tolls—a sophisticated phishing scheme designed to drain bank accounts and steal identities. Authorities warn this scam has surged in early 2025, with fake alerts impersonating toll agencies from California to New York.
How the Scam Works
Victims receive unsolicited texts stating they’ve evaded toll payments and must settle debts immediately via a provided link. These messages often:
- Use urgent language like “pay within 12 hours to avoid fines”
- Include fake toll amounts (e.g., $12.50 or $25)
- Link to professional-looking but fraudulent payment portals
Clicking the link directs users to phishing sites that harvest credit card details, driver’s license numbers, and other sensitive data. Scammers may also install malware to hijack devices.
Recent Warnings From Officials
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and FBI have issued nationwide alerts after spikes in reports. On February 22, 2025, Harris County officials confirmed these texts are fake—the Harris County Toll Road Authority never contacts drivers via SMS about unpaid fees. Similar advisories were issued in New York, Massachusetts, and Texas.
“The Toll Roads do NOT send text messages to non-accountholders. Verify any suspicious notifications through your official account dashboard.” – Transportation Corridor Agencies
How to Protect Yourself
- Never click links in unexpected toll-related texts
- Verify balances through your state’s official toll agency website or app
- Report scams via:
- Your phone’s “report junk” feature
- The FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- The FBI’s IC3 portal (ic3.gov)
If You Already Clicked
- Contact your bank to freeze compromised accounts
- File reports with IdentityTheft.gov and local law enforcement
- Monitor credit reports for suspicious activity
