Oregon: No Toll System, No Text Links

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) recently emphasized that the state does not operate a toll program. Furthermore, if the Oregon DMV contacts you via text, these messages will never include links asking for personal information.

ODOT advises drivers to immediately delete suspicious messages and block the sender’s number. Clicking on these fraudulent links could lead to websites designed to steal sensitive information. For added peace of mind, verify any official communication from ODOT directly by calling 1-888-Ask-ODOT or 503-945-5000.

Washington State Urges Caution

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has also warned drivers about scam texts. If you receive a message about toll payments containing unfamiliar links, do not click them.

Drivers who want to check their toll account status or resolve billing issues are encouraged to visit the official Good to Go! website.

Minnesota’s Scam Concerns Around E-ZPass

Minnesota drivers using the E-ZPass system are being targeted similarly. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) advises anyone receiving dubious messages to refrain from responding, delete the text, and take steps to secure their personal and financial information.

MnDOT also recommends reporting fraud to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center or the Federal Trade Commission. If you have any concerns, you can contact MnDOT directly.

Other States Affected

This scam isn’t limited to these regions. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) reports similar texts disguised as official correspondence from the Missouri DOT, even though Missouri, like Oregon, does not operate toll roads. Scam activity has also been confirmed in states such as Delaware, Texas, Ohio, and Maryland.

Protect Yourself

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but staying vigilant can help you avoid falling victim. Remember these key points:

• Delete suspicious messages immediately and block the sender’s number.

• Verify communication with official agencies by using phone numbers or websites you trust.

• Avoid clicking on unknown links in texts or emails.

• Report any incidents of suspected fraud to relevant federal agencies.

Your personal and financial security starts with staying informed. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Always double-check before responding to unsolicited messages.

Source: Land Line

The post Fake Texts About Unpaid Tolls Are on the Rise appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

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

The post Scammers Target Toll Users with Fake Payment Requests appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.