Overview
- A widespread text message scam falsely claims unpaid tolls and threatens fines or license suspension to coerce payments.
- Cybersecurity experts trace the scams to Chinese criminal networks using bulk-purchased domains and advanced evasion techniques.
- Scammers exploit fear and urgency, with some messages mimicking state toll systems like FastTrak, E-ZPass, and SunPass.
- Authorities, including the FBI and FTC, warn recipients not to click links or engage with the messages, advising verification through official toll websites.
- AI tools and social engineering tactics have fueled a significant rise in these 'smishing' attacks, with vulnerable populations, including the elderly, most at risk.
Articles 15
Forbes
Police Warn iPhone, Android Users—Delete And Report These Messages
CNBC1mo
Why the FastTrak toll road text scam is out of control and Apple, Android can't do anything to stop it
New York Post1mo
Police warn iPhone users to report dangerous text message: 'These scammers want to scare people'
Associated Press1mo
Don't click on those road toll texts. FBI issues fresh warning about the smishing scam
NDTV1mo
FBI Warns Of "Smishing" Text Scam In iPhone, Android: How To Remain Safe
People1mo
What is ‘Smishing’ and Why is the FBI Recommending You Delete iPhone and Android Text Messages That Say This
Quotes 42
The Federal Trade Commission is an independent agency of the United States government whose principal mission is the enforcement of civil antitrust law and the promotion of consumer protection.
“Not only is the scammer trying to steal your money, but if you click the link, they could get your personal info and even steal your identity.”
The FTC cautioned against smishing scams that aim to steal personal and financial information from users.
5 sources
“Don’t click on any links in, or respond to, unexpected texts. Scammers want you to react quickly, but it’s best to stop and check it out.”
The FTC warns users about the dangers of reacting hastily to unexpected messages.
2 sources
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States and its principal federal law enforcement agency.
“The texts claim the recipient owes money for unpaid tolls and contain almost identical language”
The FBI provided information about the nature of the fraudulent text messages being sent to users.
2 sources
“Check your account using the toll service’s legitimate website.”
The FBI provided guidance on actions to take if a user receives a fraudulent text message.
2 sources