Beware! E-ZPass Text Scams Are Back—Don’t Fall for This Trick!

In recent weeks, a wave of fraudulent text messages claiming to be from E-ZPass has swept across the nation, alarming consumers and prompting warnings from officials. These scams, often referred to as “smishing,” combine SMS (text messaging) and phishing tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals into revealing personal information or making unauthorized payments. Governor Kathy Hochul and various law enforcement agencies have issued urgent alerts to help the public recognize and avoid these scams.

The scam typically begins with a text message that informs the recipient of unpaid tolls, often creating a false sense of urgency. The message may threaten late fees or additional charges if the balance is not settled immediately. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), more than 2,000 complaints related to smishing scams have been filed since March 2024, indicating a growing trend that targets consumers through various digital platforms.

Key characteristics of these scam messages include:

1. Links to phishing sites: Clicking on these links may lead to websites designed to steal personal information.
2. Poor grammar and misspellings: Many scam texts feature unusual language or errors, which can be a red flag.
3. Unfamiliar sender numbers: Legitimate communications from E-ZPass will come from recognized numbers.

Officials stress that legitimate E-ZPass communications will never be sent via text regarding unpaid tolls or account balances. Instead, consumers should always verify any claims directly through the official E-ZPass website or customer service. The official site can be found at www.ezpassnj.com.

Victims of these scams may unwittingly provide sensitive information, which can lead to identity theft or unauthorized charges on their accounts. Local consumer affairs departments are actively conducting outreach to educate the public about these scams and how to avoid them. They emphasize the importance of awareness and education in preventing these incidents. Sharing information about these scams with friends and family can help protect others from falling victim.

In a recent statement, Governor Hochul urged consumers to remain vigilant, saying, “We must protect ourselves and our communities from these malicious scams that prey on our trust.” The FBI echoes this sentiment, encouraging individuals to report any suspicious messages to the appropriate authorities. If personal information has been compromised, individuals should contact their bank or credit card provider immediately to secure their accounts.

To further safeguard against these scams, consumers are advised to follow these steps:

1. Do not click on links: If you receive a suspicious text, avoid clicking on any links or providing personal information.
2. Report suspicious messages: Notify local authorities or the FBI of any scam messages you receive.
3. Verify claims through official channels: Always check your E-ZPass account directly on the official website or contact customer service for assistance.

The rise of smishing scams is part of a broader trend of phishing attempts that target consumers across various platforms. Scammers may impersonate different state toll services, not just E-ZPass, making this a widespread issue affecting many drivers across the country. As technology evolves, so do the tactics used by these criminals, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance.

In conclusion, the resurgence of E-ZPass text scams serves as a stark reminder of the importance of consumer awareness in today’s digital landscape. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to these malicious schemes. Remember, if you ever receive an unsolicited message regarding unpaid tolls, always verify the information through official channels before taking any action. Together, we can combat these scams and ensure our personal information remains secure.