AUSTIN, Texas — Did you recently get a text about an unpaid toll road balance? The FBI says it's a scam.
Drivers across Texas are being warned about the toll road scam claiming there's an outstanding balance on the person's account. The "smishing" message also contains a link and says there will be a late fee if not paid.
"If you don't pay your toll balance like, immediately, then you know, you go from like $2 to $200. So, it's really scary. Like, honestly, it's a smart way to scam people," Austinite Allison Brown said.
The link then leads to a website impersonating a toll service like TxTag or the Central Texas Mobility Authority.
What to do if you receive a toll text
The FBI says people should take several steps to keep their personal information and bank accounts secure.
First, the FBI says to file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), including the phone number and website listed in the text. Be sure not to click the link, but monitor your accounts in case you need to dispute any unfamiliar charges.
Secondly, check your account using the toll service's website and then contact their customer service line about the scam text. Lastly, be sure to delete any texts received.
What is smishing?
Those familiar with phishing attacks will find smishing to be similar.
The FBI says smishing is a social engineered attack that uses fake text messages to trick them into downloading malware, sharing sensitive information or sending money to cybercriminals. The word smishing combines phishing with "short message service," or SMS.
The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) said it does not send texts without your consent and does not include nor ask for personal information, including dollar amounts owed. CTRMA only sends texts to customers who have opted in to receive payment reminders.
If you have been targeted by this scam, you are asked to report it to txtag.org or by calling 1-888-468-9834.