Michigan authorities are warning residents in West Michigan about a toll scam involving deceptive text messages. According to Attorney General Dana Nessel and Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Director Bradley C. Wieferich, these fraudulent messages allege that recipients owe unpaid tolls to MDOT, threaten legal action, and direct individuals to a fake website link that mimics MDOT's official page.
Notably, Michigan does not have toll roads. Tolls are collected at the Blue Water Bridge, International Bridge, and Mackinac Bridge, and legitimate toll notifications are sent via mail only, never through text messages.
"While this toll scam isn’t new, it is becoming more prevalent, particularly in West Michigan," Nessel stated. She advised consumers to scrutinize any suspicious text messages that solicit personal information or payments.
Wieferich emphasized that MDOT doesn't manage toll roads and any toll collections are not handled via text or through license plate readers. "MDOT officials want to remind all drivers, our department does not operate toll roads," he said.
The fraudulent messages, described as "smishing" texts, share common traits with various scams. Consumers are advised to look out for signs such as unsolicited messages, unfamiliar or lengthy phone numbers, suspicious links, urgency in language, and requests for personal information.
To protect themselves, consumers should avoid replying to such messages or clicking on links. They are encouraged to use spam-blocking tools and can report suspicious texts by forwarding them to SPAM (7726) or alerting the Federal Trade Commission.
Attorney General Nessel reminded the public that government agencies, including MDOT, do not solicit personal information or payments through text, email, or phone. Instead, official notices are sent by mail with payment options. Consumers can file complaints with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Team for further assistance.