Since early March, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has received over 2,000 complaints regarding fraudulent text messages, a tactic known as smishing, supposedly representing toll collection services in at least three states.

Smishing involves the use of deceptive text messages to manipulate individuals into downloading malware, divulging sensitive information, or sending money to cybercriminals.

Information from IC3 complaints suggests that this scam may be spreading across state lines. The text messages typically allege unpaid toll fees and utilize nearly identical language across multiple complaints.

While the claimed “outstanding toll amount” remains consistent, the links provided within the messages mimic the names of state toll services, and the associated phone numbers vary between states. A typical example of these smishing texts is as follows:

(State Toll Service Name): We have identified an outstanding toll amount of $12.51 linked to your account. To avoid a late fee of $50.00, please visit https://myturnpiketollservices.com to settle your balance.

If you receive such a text, the FBI advises taking the following steps:

• File a complaint with the IC3 at www.ic3.gov. Include the phone number from which the text originated and the website mentioned in the message.
• Verify your account status through the legitimate website of the toll service in question.
• Contact the customer service phone number provided by the toll service.
• Delete any smishing texts you receive.
• If you click on any links or share your information, take measures to safeguard your personal and financial data. Challenge any unauthorized charges that appear.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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