California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a consumer alert following an increase in text-based scams claiming consumers owe express lane or toll charges and asking for online payment. Bonta urges Californians not to click on links in texts that appear to alert consumers to overdue toll charges. FasTrak, the electronic toll collection system used statewide in California, does not request payment by text with a link to a website. The consumer alert includes tips on how to identify and avoid toll charge scams and what to do if one becomes a victim of this fraudulent activity.
"Scammers are often quite literally in our pockets, just a text away. Text-based toll charge scams are on the rise and knowing what to look for is an important way to keep consumers safe against these tactics," said Attorney General Bonta. "I urge Californians to take practical steps to guard against being victimized by scammers, including talking to friends and family who may be unaware of these dangers."
These types of scams typically involve a text instructing recipients to click a link to pay "overdue toll charges" to avoid late fees. This is likely not from the tolling agency but from scammers aiming for phishing attacks where personal information could be stolen, including credit card numbers.
To spot and avoid such scams:
- Slow down: Avoid rushing into clicking links or responding immediately.
- Check with the tolling agency: Use known contact details rather than those provided in the suspicious text.
- Report unwanted texts: Utilize your phone’s “report junk” option or forward them to 7726 (SPAM).
- Don’t engage: After reporting, delete the message without responding.
- Share information: Inform others about these scams.
If you receive a toll scam text:
- Delete any scam texts received.
- File complaints with relevant authorities like the FBI, Federal Trade Commission, and the Attorney General's office.
- Verify your account using official websites like FasTrak’s legitimate site.
- Contact customer service at FasTrak (877-229-8655) if needed.
- Secure personal information if you have interacted with the scam.
For more information on scams or to report one, visit oag.ca.gov/contact/general-contact-form.