The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is continuing to receive reports about “smishing scam” in which texts are being sent to random individuals to deceive them into sharing personal information to settle fake outstanding tolls.
The texts are apparently from “Pennsylvania Turnpike Toll Services” and say “our records indicate that your vehicle has an unpaid toll invoice.” It adds that there would be additional charges if it isn’t paid.
Similar scams have been reported by toll agencies across the country over the past several weeks.
The PTC says that people who receive an unsolicited text, email or similar message suggesting it is from the Pennsylvania Turnpike or another toll agency should not click on the link. E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers can use approved and safe methods to check their accounts such as the official or the PA Toll Pay app.
Those who receive a fraudulent text can file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at . It is a site dedicated to sharing information on Internet crimes across law enforcement agencies.