Drivers traveling along the Ohio Turnpike are being warned about a rise in text message scams demanding toll payments through fraudulent links.
The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission has reported that individuals across multiple area codes have received deceptive messages likely generated by automated “robo-texting systems.” These texts instruct recipients to make payments via fake websites.
A Clear Warning from Officials
“The Ohio Turnpike does not request its customers to make payments by text,” the commission clarified. Additionally, it noted that any collections for unpaid tolls or violations are not conducted via text messages.
For secure transactions, customers are urged to use the commission’s official websites, EZpassOH.com and OhioTurnpike.org, which are the only platforms associated with Ohio Turnpike’s E-ZPass accounts.
A History of Scam Alerts
Unfortunately, text scams like these are not new to Ohio. The commission previously issued three different scam alerts in 2024, with the latest warning being made public in August. The ongoing nature of these scams underscores the importance of remaining vigilant.
What to Do if Targeted by a Scam
If you’ve received a suspicious text message about unpaid tolls, here’s what officials recommend you do immediately:
- Delete the Scam Text: Avoid clicking on any links in the message.
- Protect Your Accounts: If you’ve accidentally clicked on a fraudulent link and provided sensitive information, contact your bank or credit card provider to secure your financial accounts.
- Report the Scam: File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, including details such as the phone number and any website links provided in the message.
- Verify Tolls via Official Channels: If you suspect you have unpaid tolls, check your account directly through Ohio Turnpike’s verified websites or customer service line.
Rising Reports of Toll Payment Scams Nationwide
Ohio is not alone in dealing with these scams. Maryland officials issued a similar warning in January about “smishing” attempts, a technique that uses text messages to trick users into revealing personal or financial information. Reports from South Carolina have also highlighted comparable fraudulent schemes.
A Broader Problem and National Message
Across the country, toll agencies are urging customers to stay alert. Last year, the E-ZPass Group, a coalition of toll agencies from 19 states, issued a statement cautioning customers about ongoing scam attempts via text messages, advising them to ensure their personal and financial information remains secure.
This concerning trend has also caught the attention of federal authorities. In April of last year, the FBI reported receiving over 2,000 complaints in just one month relating to toll payment scams across three states. Their advice to the public is straightforward—never click on unsolicited links and immediately delete any suspicious messages.
If you’d like to report a scam, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center provides a website. Be sure to include both the sender’s phone number and any links featured in the text.
Source: Land Line
