The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) is warning the public of a suspected "smishing" scam involving phony text messages.
The texts claim to be from “Pennsylvania Turnpike Toll Services” and center around urgent requests with the account that would result in additional charges if the overdue balance does not get settled, the PTC stated.
According to the PTC, similar scams have been reported by toll agencies across the country over the past several days.
Experts say smishing is a scam that uses fake mobile text messages to trick people into downloading malware onto their phones, sharing sensitive information, or sending money to cybercriminals.
"People who receive an unsolicited text, email, or similar message suggesting it is from the PA Turnpike or another toll agency should not click on the link," the PTC said. "E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers can use approved safe methods to check their accounts such as the official PA Turnpike E-ZPass website or the PA Toll Pay app available from the Apple App Store or Google Play store."
Those who receive a fraudulent text can file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov, a site dedicated to sharing information on Internet crimes across law enforcement agencies.
To learn more about ways to stay safe from scams, visit Security & Fraud | PA Turnpike.
