The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a serious warning about a scam that is spreading across various states in the United States, involving phishing attempts targeting toll road customers through text messages.
According to a recent announcement by the FBI, Americans are being targeted through a series of SMS phishing (also known as Smishing) attacks, using notifications claiming drivers owe fictitious toll fees as bait.
Since early March 2024, the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has received over 2,000 complaints from at least three states, reporting phishing messages purportedly sent by fake toll collection departments. Complaint data from IC3 indicates that this scam may be spreading among states.
The language used in these messages is nearly identical, alleging the recipient owes a toll fee. The “unpaid toll amount” in these reported complaints to IC3 also appears to be consistent. However, the links provided in the messages are crafted to mimic the names of state toll departments, and the phone numbers vary by state.
The FBI also included a sample of such fraudulent messages in their announcement.
Reports from victims indicate that this type of phishing activity has been active since last month.
Pennsylvania’s toll roads have been at the forefront of those affected, with their operating department advising customers to avoid engaging with these fraudulent messages. The Pennsylvania authorities have expressed similar concerns, emphasizing that these phishing messages lead victims to fake websites aimed at stealing personal data.
The Florida Department of Transportation has also issued a warning and shared the FBI’s recommendations on what to do upon receiving such messages, which include:
1. File a complaint with IC3 at www.ic3.gov, including the telephone number the message came from and the website listed in the message.
2. Use the legitimate website of the toll service department to check your account.
3. Call the customer service number of the toll service department.
4. Delete any phishing messages received.
5. If you clicked on any links or provided your information, make efforts to protect your personal and financial accounts. Question any unfamiliar charges.
Editor: 紫微