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Receive a text message about an unpaid toll fee? It's probably a scam.
A new warning from the FBI is urging Americans to be on guard for messages that claim the recipient has unpaid tolls. These texts contain a favorite SMS scam tactic: a link that directs to a website where you can enter payment information.
"However, the link provided within the text is created to impersonate the state's toll service name, and phone numbers appear to change between states," according to the FBI, which says it’s received 2,000+ complaints about smishing texts for toll collections across three states.
Smishing is a social engineering attack where fake text messages are used to trick people into downloading malware or sending sensitive information or cash to cybercriminals.
The texts use very similar language and all request that the recipient pay the “outstanding toll amount.” If you receive one of the texts, here’s what the FBI says to do:
File a complaint with the IC3, www.ic3.gov, and include:
- The phone number from where the text originated.
- The website listed within the text
- Check your account using the toll service's legitimate website.
- Contact the toll service's customer service phone number.
- Delete any smishing texts received.
- If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.