Fake Toll Text Scams

Wisconsin has again seen in uptick in scammers targeting Wisconsin drivers with text messages pretending to be from a tolling agency collecting overdue toll charges.

Wisconsin consumers are receiving text messages with a link to a website that says they need to pay a tolling agency right away to avoid late fees. Despite the website appearing to be a legitimate toll payment portal, it is an imposter site run by a scammer who wants to steal a consumer’s private data, financial account details, or even their identity.

To identify and avoid text scams about a fake toll charge, consumers should:

· Slow down. There is no rush to click on links or respond to the text. Scammers want to scare consumers into reacting quickly when they send you an alarming text message.

· Check with the tolling agency directly if they have recently traveled in a tolling area and are concerned they do owe tolls. Consumers can contact the state’s tolling agency using a phone number or website they can confirm is legitimate. They should not use any contact information included in the suspicious text message.

· Report unwanted text messages. Most smartphones let users report a suspicious call, text, or phone number to their service provider. If a consumer receives a message on their work phone, they may also consider contacting their IT department.

· Don’t engage. Delete the message. Unwanted messages often lead to scams. The best way to prevent a scam is to avoid engaging with it and delete the message

Paying a scammer can result in consumers losing their money or control over their personal information.