Toll Scam Texts Surge Across U.S., Exploiting Fear and Confusion

Cybercriminals target drivers nationwide with fake toll payment demands, leveraging evolving tactics and stolen personal data.

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.