Officials Warn of E-ZPass Scam Texts.
If you’ve recently received a text message claiming you owe money to E-ZPass, be cautious it could be a scam. Officials are warning about a recent surge in these fraudulent texts designed to trick recipients into sharing their personal and financial information.
The scam works by sending text messages that falsely claim the recipient has an outstanding E-ZPass toll balance. These texts often include a link that urges users to click and update their payment information to avoid late fees or account suspension. The messages often employ alarming language and deadlines to pressure recipients into acting quickly without thinking critically.
How the E-ZPass Scam Works:
* Urgent Message: The text typically begins with a message indicating an overdue E-ZPass toll.
* Payment Link: The text includes a link, often shortened or disguised, that leads to a fake website designed to mimic the official E-ZPass website.
* Data Harvesting: Once on the fake website, victims are prompted to enter their personal details, including:
* E-ZPass account information
* Credit card numbers
* Bank account details
* Driver’s license numbers
* Social Security numbers
Once scammers have this information, they can steal your identity, access your bank accounts, and rack up fraudulent charges.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
* Unsolicited Text Messages: Legitimate E-ZPass notifications are typically sent via email or through the E-ZPass app. Receiving an unexpected text message should raise suspicion.
* Generic Greetings: Scam texts often use generic greetings like ‘Dear Customer’ instead of your name.
* Spelling and Grammar Errors: Scam messages are often riddled with spelling and grammatical errors, a sign of unprofessionalism.
* Suspicious Links: Hover over the link before clicking to see the actual URL. If it doesn’t match the official E-ZPass website (likely ending in something like `.com` instead of `.gov`), do not click on it.
* Urgent Demands: Scammers use urgency to pressure you into acting without thinking. Be wary of messages that demand immediate action to avoid penalties.
What to Do if You Receive a E-ZPass Scam Text:
* Do not click on the link! This is the most important step.
* Do not provide any personal or financial information.
* Contact E-ZPass directly: Visit your state’s official E-ZPass website (e.g., E-ZPass New York, E-ZPass Virginia) to check your account status and report the suspicious text.
* Report the scam: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
* Delete the text message.
* Consider blocking the sender’s number.
How to Protect Yourself:
* Be Skeptical: Always be cautious of unsolicited messages, especially those demanding personal information.
* Verify Directly: Never trust claims made in text messages or emails. Verify information by contacting the official organization directly through their official website or phone number.
* Use Strong Passwords: Use unique and strong passwords for all your online accounts.
* Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your E-ZPass account, bank statements, and credit card activity for any unauthorized transactions.
* Stay Informed: Keep up to date on common scams and fraud tactics by following news from legitimate sources and government agencies.
This surge in E-ZPass text scams highlights the importance of being vigilant and taking precautions to protect your personal and financial information. By knowing the warning signs and taking the necessary steps, you can avoid becoming a victim of this increasingly common fraud. Remember, when in doubt, contact E-ZPass directly to verify any suspicious communication.
