iOS and Android users across the United States are urged to stay vigilant following warnings from the FBI about a new phishing scam targeting unsuspecting motorists. The fraudulent text messages, which pretend to be from toll agencies, claim that the recipient owes money for unpaid tolls. Authorities are advising anyone who receives such a message to delete it immediately to protect their financial information.The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also issued a detailed advisory regarding this deceptive scheme.
In this scam, victims receive a suspicious text that appears to be from a toll authority, demanding immediate payment for alleged unpaid tolls. The message includes a link that, when clicked, directs users to a fake payment page where they may unknowingly input sensitive banking or credit card information. Beyond financial theft, the scam could also result in identity theft if personal details like driver's license numbers are compromised.
The FTC strongly advises against clicking on links from unknown senders. Scammers often exploit emotions and create a sense of urgency, pushing victims to act quickly without verifying the authenticity of the message. If you receive a text threatening to suspend your driver's license over unpaid tolls, it is vital to take a step back and investigate the legitimacy of the claim.
Authorities are warning about the latest phishing scam related to fake toll payments. | Image credit-FTC
To combat such scams, the FTC advises users to utilize their phone's "Report junk" feature for any unfamiliar texts, or forward suspicious messages to 7726 (SPAM). After reporting and confirming the text is a scam, it should be deleted promptly. These warnings are not mere rumors; they originate from credible government agencies like the FBI and FTC.
While labeled as a new scam, this scheme is part of the broader category of phishing attacks that mimic legitimate organizations. Many victims may be tempted to pay the purported debt, fearing potential repercussions without recalling whether they incurred any actual tolls. It is crucial not to fall into this trap—the scammers' end goal is to acquire your banking details and deplete your accounts.
