California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a warning to consumers regarding ongoing text-based scams in the state. The scams involve fraudulent messages claiming that recipients owe past-due charges, often accompanied by links intended to steal sensitive payment information. These messages may threaten "late fees" or use phrases like "urgent action required" to pressure individuals into clicking the provided links.
Bonta emphasized the persistence of these scams, stating, “California, these scammers are relentless. While text-based toll charge scams remain widespread, consumers across our state are also receiving texts claiming they owe a parking ticket charge.” He advised residents to avoid clicking on such links and instead visit official websites for verification. Additionally, he urged Californians to discuss these threats with friends and family who might be unaware.
The California Department of Justice advises those receiving potential scam texts not to click on any links. Consumers should file complaints with the FBI, Federal Trade Commission, and the attorney general's office. Important details such as the originating phone number and website listed in the message should be included in reports. Deleting scam texts and securing personal information by regularly checking bank statements for unauthorized transactions is also recommended.
Specific scams identified include toll charge scams involving FasTrak express lanes or tolls. FasTrak does not solicit payments via text message links; account holders are advised to verify notifications through official channels such as The Toll Roads website or app.
Parking charge scams mimic agencies like the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), which does not request payment via text-linked websites. For accurate payment information regarding SFMTA citations, consumers should visit SFMTA.com/PayCitation.
Package delivery scams claim issues with deliveries requiring resolution through linked sites. Such requests for payment or corrections via text are fraudulent; legitimate carriers do not operate this way. Signing up for alerts from companies like UPS, FedEx, or USPS can provide direct package updates.
Attorney General Bonta remains dedicated to enforcing consumer protections across California and addressing illegal robocalls often used for scamming purposes. Last year, he collaborated with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as part of an Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force to address suspected illegal robocall traffic.