PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Pennsylvania residents have seen a rise in smishing text messages posing as the Pa. Turnpike this summer, with it continuing into September.
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, smishing is the "practice of sending text messages to someone in order to trick the person into revealing personal or confidential information which can then be used for criminal purposes."
The Pa. Turnpike announced in a Facebook post that scammers are trying to impersonate the Turnpike and other toll agencies to get individuals' personal financial information.
The text reads, "PA Toll Services*, our records show that your vehicle has an outstanding toll charge. To prevent further fees totaling $49.99, please settle the due amount of $4.69 at (clickable link)."
The Turnpike warned residents to never click on any links or provide any information.
E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers can check their accounts safely through the official PA Turnpike E-ZPass website or the PA Toll Pay app.
