The rise of online scams continues to pose a serious threat to unsuspecting individuals, and one of the latest schemes involves fraudulent text messages pretending to be from E-ZPass or the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). These scams attempt to steal your personal and financial information by tricking you into clicking malicious links. Here’s what you need to know to stay protected.
How the E-ZPass and VDOT Toll Scam Works
Scammers send fake text messages claiming to be from E-ZPass or toll road agencies like VDOT, stating that you have unpaid toll charges. The message typically contains an urgent warning, such as “Final Notice! Pay now to avoid penalties!” and includes a link that appears legitimate. However, clicking this link can:
- Steal your credit card and personal information.
- Install malware on your phone.
- Trick you into making payments to fraudulent accounts.
These scams often use changing phone numbers and realistic-looking website links to impersonate official toll collection agencies, making them difficult to detect at first glance.
Signs of a Fake Toll Payment Message
To protect yourself from falling victim to this scam, watch out for these warning signs:
- Urgency and threats: Messages demanding immediate payment or warning of legal action.
- Suspicious links: Links that don’t match official E-ZPass or VDOT websites.
- Unfamiliar senders: Messages coming from random phone numbers or emails.
- Grammar and spelling mistakes: Many scam messages contain obvious errors.
- Requests for personal or financial details: Legitimate agencies will never ask for sensitive information via text.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message
If you get a message that appears to be from E-ZPass, VDOT, or any toll collection service, follow these steps to stay safe:
- Do not click any links.
- Verify your account directly by visiting the official E-ZPass website or calling their customer service.
- Report the scam to your mobile carrier by forwarding the text to 7726 (SPAM).
- Block and delete the message to prevent further contact.
- Use ScamMinder to check the legitimacy of any suspicious links before clicking.
Why Scammers Target Toll Users
Toll road scams are on the rise because they target a broad audience. Many drivers use toll services, making it easy for scammers to send mass messages, hoping someone will fall for the deception.
Additionally, these scams are effective because they play on fear—nobody wants to deal with overdue payments or legal troubles. Unfortunately, cybercriminals exploit this fear to steal money and personal data.
Protect Yourself: Use ScamMinder to Verify Links
How to Protect Yourself from Toll Scams
1. Verify Before You Click
Always check the authenticity of any message by visiting the official E-ZPass Virginia website or contacting their customer service.
2. Know the Official Communication Channels
Legitimate messages from E-ZPass Virginia only come from (844) 548-0707 or (844) 718-2368. Any other number is likely fraudulent.
3. Use Scam Detection Tools
Before opening any link received via text, use a scam verification tool like ScamMinder to check if the URL is safe.
4. Report Suspicious Messages
If you receive a scam text:
- Forward it to 7726 (SPAM) to report it.
- File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
- Report directly to E-ZPass Virginia or VDOT.
5. Regularly Check Your E-ZPass Account
To avoid falling victim to fake toll notices, log in to your E-ZPass account only through official websites. This ensures you stay updated on your toll payments and detect any fraudulent activity.
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert, Stay Safe
Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, making it crucial to stay vigilant. E-ZPass and VDOT will never send text messages demanding immediate payments or requesting personal information. If you receive such a message, trust your instincts and verify through official sources.
By spreading awareness, using tools like ScamMinder, and reporting fraudulent activity, we can work together to stop these scams and protect innocent individuals from financial loss.
Stay informed, Stay cautious, Stay safe.
