Sophisticated Phishing Scam Targets U.S. Toll Users with Fake Payment Demands
A surge in fraudulent text messages impersonating FasTrak and E-ZPass toll agencies is stealing personal and financial data, with authorities urging public vigilance.
- The phishing scam, escalating nationwide, uses fake texts claiming unpaid tolls to target FasTrak and E-ZPass users, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area.
- Victims are coerced through urgent and threatening language, such as warnings of fines or license suspensions, to click malicious links mimicking official toll portals.
- The scam leverages phishing-as-a-service platforms like Lucid and Darcula to execute large-scale, technically sophisticated campaigns.
- Scammers exploit mobile-specific messaging features, including iMessage and RCS, to bypass spam filters and increase victim engagement.
- Authorities advise consumers to verify toll balances directly via official websites or apps and to report phishing attempts to the FBI or FTC.