PA Turnpike Warns of New Forms of Smishing Scam

PA Turnpike Warns of New Forms of Smishing Scam  

A text messaging scam continues to take new forms for unpaid tolls.

MIDDLETOWN, PA — In light of new versions of the smishing scam, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) is reminding customers to be vigilant and refrain from clicking on any links or engaging with unexpected texts demanding money for unpaid tolls. Various new versions have recently surfaced, including one impersonating a collection agency that is authorized to work on behalf of the PA Turnpike.  

Since April, scammers have been impersonating tolling agencies across the country and sending urgent requests to settle an overdue balance. While this scam continues to be reported on by various outlets and agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission, new forms continue to surface.  

People who receive an unsolicited text, email, or similar message suggesting it is from the PA Turnpike or another toll/collection agency should not click on the link. E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers can use approved safe methods to check their accounts by calling 1-877-736-6727 (M- F, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) or using 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 report it to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and/or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. Both organizations share scam information with law enforcement agencies.

To learn more about ways to stay safe from scams, visit Security & Fraud | PA Turnpike.

 

###

 

Media Contacts:

Marissa Orbanek, Press Secretary: (267) 408-5151, morbanek@paturnpike.com 

Crispin Havener, Assistant Press Secretary: (717) 870-2841, chavener@paturnpike.com