Unpaid Toll Text? It’s a SCAM! Here’s How to Spot It
Posted By Darrigo & Diaz
If you’re a Florida driver, you may have received a text message claiming you have unpaid tolls that need immediate attention. The message urges you to click a link to avoid penalties, fines, or even legal consequences. But before you panic and take action, be warned—this is a sophisticated scam designed to steal your personal and financial information.
Scammers are sending fraudulent text messages that mimic official toll agencies, using fear tactics to manipulate recipients into making quick payments. These messages often contain links to fake websites that closely resemble legitimate toll payment portals. With these scams becoming more advanced, it’s important to know how to recognize, avoid, and report them. Here’s everything you need to know to protect yourself.
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How the fake toll scam works
Scam text messages vary in wording, but they typically follow a pattern. One version making the rounds in Florida reads something like this:
“Immediate action required: Your SunPass account shows an overdue toll balance. To prevent penalties, submit payment within 12 hours. Failure to comply may result in DMV notification and additional fines. [Click Here] https:xxxxxxx”
Some messages even instruct recipients to reply with “Y” or to reopen the message after closing it, claiming this is necessary to activate the payment link. However, these tactics are purely deceptive. Clicking the link may not only lead you to a phishing site designed to capture your credit card details, but it could also trigger a malware download that can infect your phone and steal your sensitive data.
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Red flags that the text message is a scam
Fraudsters go to great lengths to make their scams appear legitimate, but there are clear red flags to watch for. Here’s how to identify a fake toll payment text:
- Suspicious phone numbers
- Official communications typically come via mail, email, or your verified SunPass account. Real toll agencies do not send texts from random or personal-looking numbers.
- Poor grammar and unusual wording
- Scammers often use awkward phrasing, odd capitalizations, or typos.
- Example: “Urgent! Your tolls dues need payment now to avoid penalization.”
- Sketchy links
- Hover over any link (without clicking) to inspect the domain.
- Legitimate toll agencies use URLs ending in .gov or sunpass.com.
- Scam sites often use misleading domains, such as:
- floridatollpaynow.com
- sunpassalerts-info.net
- Mismatched account information
- If you have a SunPass or other toll account, log in directly at www.sunpass.com to check for any outstanding balance.
- Call customer service if you’re unsure rather than relying on a text message.
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What to do if you receive a suspicious toll text
If you get a text about unpaid tolls, don’t engage with it. Instead, follow these steps:
- Do not click the link
Avoid clicking on any links, opening attachments, or responding to the message.- Enter the official toll agency’s website directly into your browser if you need to check your account.
- Verify the claim
- If you’re unsure whether you actually owe tolls, log in to your SunPass or toll account through the official website or contact customer service directly.
- Report the scam
- Forward suspicious messages to 7726 (SPAM) to report them to your mobile provider.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help combat these scams.
- Monitor your accounts
- Regularly check your toll accounts and bank statements for unauthorized transactions.
- If you accidentally clicked the link and entered information, contact your bank immediately to secure your accounts.
Stay alert and protect yourself
Scammers constantly find new ways to target unsuspecting individuals, but staying informed is your best defense. If you receive a text about unpaid tolls, take a step back, verify the claim through official channels, and never click on suspicious links. By recognizing the warning signs and reporting fraudulent messages, you can help stop these scams and keep your personal information safe on and off the road.
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For over 25 years, the Florida car accident attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz have fought tirelessly on behalf of Central Florida accident victims and their families. We specialize in all types of automobile accidents, including accidents involving commercial trucks, drunk drivers, motorcycles, left-hand turns, pedestrians and bicyclists.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Florida, contact us immediately through our secured contact form. Or call our office at (813) 437-5523 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and connect with an experienced and knowledgeable accident lawyer.
