Don’t Click That Link: How Toll Text Scams Trick You

Let’s Talk About Toll Scams

Toll text scams are fake messages that claim you owe a toll fee. They include a link and often use urgent language like “Pay now to avoid late fees.” The message might look official—sometimes even mimicking a real toll agency—but it’s not.

The goal is to get you to click the link and enter personal info, like your credit card number or login credentials. Once you do, scammers can steal your data or money.

These scams are everywhere right now because they’re simple to send and look convincing. All it takes is a phone number and a fake URL to trick someone into tapping.

The Federal Trade Commission offers guidelines on how to handle and report these types of scams, reinforcing its role as a key authority in consumer protection against fraud.

This blog will break down how these scams work, what to look out for, and how to avoid getting caught in one.

How These Scams Actually Work

Toll text scams usually start with a message saying you owe a small fee—often under $5—for an unpaid toll. The text includes a link that looks official, sometimes even mimicking real transportation agencies.

Here’s how it works:

• The message is fake, but designed to look real with urgent language like “Final notice” or “Immediate payment required.”
• The link leads to a fake site that looks like a toll payment portal.
• You’re asked to enter sensitive info—like your credit card number, full name, or login credentials.
• That info goes straight to scammers, who can use it to steal money, commit fraud, or sell your data.

The setup feels believable because the scam uses real logos, familiar phrasing, and pressure tactics. It’s quick, low-effort, and often effective—which is why it’s spreading fast.

Red Flags to Watch For

Toll text scams are designed to look legit—but a few details almost always give them away. Here’s what to watch for if you get a suspicious text message claiming you owe money:

Generic Language With No Personal Info

Scam messages usually skip your name, license plate, or E-ZPass account details. If the text originated from an unknown number and vaguely says you owe money for unpaid tolls without specifics, it's likely a phishing text.

Urgent or Threatening Phrases

Phrases like “Final Notice,” “Pay Now,” or “Avoid Late Fees” are red flags. These unwanted texts are designed to make you react quickly before you realize they’re fake. Real state’s tolling agencies don’t use fear tactics or rush you to pay.

Unfamiliar or Sketchy Links

Check every link. Scam URLs often look similar to real toll sites but have small changes (like “ezpass-tolls.net” instead of “ezpass.com”). These are classic signs of a fraudulent text. If you’re unsure, don’t tap—just report junk and move on.

Unexpected Texts About Unpaid Tolls

Didn’t drive through a toll plaza recently? No emails or letters? Be skeptical. Scammers rely on your fuzzy memory to slip in unfamiliar charges and trick you into handing over account information or even access to your financial accounts.

Poor Grammar or Awkward Formatting

Legit messages from law enforcement agencies or tolling authorities won’t be filled with typos or weird spacing. If it looks off, trust your gut and delete unwanted text messages immediately.

This Isn’t Just Random—You Might Be Targeted

If you’ve received a fake toll text, it’s probably not a one-off. Scammers are intentionally going after drivers—and they’re getting smarter about it.

Across cities like New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, and Orlando, reports of toll scams have spiked. These areas see heavy traffic and have legit toll systems in place, making it easier for scammers to sound believable. Various government agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are collaborating to address the rising issue of scam texts related to unpaid tolls.

But how did they get your number? Most likely from data leaks, online sign-ups, or purchased lists. Your info could’ve been scraped from a breached website, leaked in a past app breach, or sold through shady data brokers.

They cast a wide net, but they target locations where toll roads are common. If you live in a high-traffic metro area—or you’ve ever paid a toll online—your number could be on their list.

So no, it’s not always random. And the more legit the message looks, the more convincing the scam becomes.

Real People, Real Scams

Toll text scams are affecting individuals nationwide. Here are a couple of notable instances:

E-ZPass Scam Alert in New York

In New York, officials have warned about scam texts impersonating E-ZPass, claiming recipients owe unpaid tolls. These messages often contain links to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and financial information. ​

SunPass Phishing Scams in Florida

Florida residents have been targeted by phishing scams involving fake SunPass messages. These texts direct recipients to fraudulent websites that attempt to collect personal data. Authorities have taken action to shut down these sites and advise users to verify any toll-related communications through official channels. ​

These incidents highlight the importance of vigilance when receiving unsolicited messages about unpaid tolls. Always verify the authenticity of such communications through official channels before providing any personal information.

What to Do If You Get One

If you get a suspicious toll text, the most important thing is don’t click the link. Even tapping it can trigger malware or phishing attempts. Here’s what you should do instead:

1. Don’t engage

Don’t reply, don’t tap the link, and don’t enter any info. Just opening the site could expose you to tracking or malicious code.

2. Check if you actually owe anything

Go directly to your state or city’s official toll agency website (like EZPass, SunPass, or FasTrak) and look up your license plate or account. Never use the link in the text to verify—always search independently.

3. Report Unwanted Texts

Help shut these scams down by reporting the message to:

• FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
• FBI IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center): ic3.gov
• You can also forward the message to 7726 (SPAM), a free service that alerts your mobile carrier.

Scammers rely on quick reactions. Taking a few seconds to pause and verify could save your data—and your money.

Already Clicked? Here’s What to Do Next

If you already clicked the link or entered any personal info—don’t panic, but act fast. Toll text scams move quickly, and the sooner you respond, the better your chances of limiting damage.

1. Change your passwords immediately

If you entered login info or reused passwords, change them ASAP—especially for banking, email, or other sensitive accounts. Use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication where possible.

2. Contact your bank or credit card issuer

If you entered payment details, let your bank know right away. They can freeze or cancel the compromised card and monitor your account for unauthorized charges.

3. Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity

Check your transaction history and credit reports regularly for anything you don’t recognize. You can use free tools like Credit Karma or enroll in identity theft monitoring.

4. Report the scam

Even if it feels embarrassing, reporting helps others stay safe. File a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and, if money was stolen, report to the FBI’s IC3.

5. Watch out for follow-up scams

Once your info is out there, scammers may try again. Be cautious with future texts, calls, or emails asking for additional info—especially if they sound urgent.

The Bottom Line

Toll text scams are simple—but they work. Scammers are counting on you to be in a hurry, not paying attention, and willing to click without thinking. The good news? You don’t have to fall for it.

Staying safe comes down to a few basics: don’t click sketchy links, verify messages through official channels, and report anything suspicious. If you’re not sure you owe a toll, check it yourself—don’t trust a random text to tell you.

These scams are hitting drivers across the country, so share this with friends and family—especially anyone who drives regularly. A 30-second heads-up could save someone from losing their info (or worse, their money).

Stay alert, slow down, and never trust a link you didn’t ask for.