Officials Warn Nationwide Toll Scam Targets Users

Multiple state transportation departments across the U.S. are issuing warnings about a surge in scam text messages claiming recipients have unpaid toll fees. These messages often create a sense of urgency, threatening legal action or fines if immediate payment is not made, and direct users to fraudulent websites that mimic official toll collection sites. The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center has reported over 60,000 complaints related to these scams, which are part of a broader trend of 'smishing' fraud, where scammers exploit text messaging to deceive victims. Agencies like the Oregon Department of Transportation and Washington State Department of Transportation emphasize that they will never request personal information or payment via text. Victims are advised to verify any toll-related communications through official channels and report suspicious messages. Officials stress the importance of remaining vigilant and cautious, especially as these scams continue to evolve and become more sophisticated.