Unpaid toll text scam: is that E-ZPass message real?

A nationwide wave of fake “unpaid toll” texts is hitting phones right now. Here’s how to tell a real toll notice from the scam — and check the link in seconds.

What’s happening

Texts claiming you owe a small unpaid toll — often $6.99 — and threatening late fees or a suspended registration are surging across the U.S. right now. The FBI, multiple state toll authorities and governors have issued fresh warnings, and security researchers have counted thousands of look-alike toll domains spun up to run the campaign.

The message impersonates E-ZPass, Tolls by Mail, FasTrak, SunPass or your state turnpike, and links to a page that copies the real toll site. It asks for the “toll” plus your card number, address and sometimes a bank login — the tiny fee is bait; your payment details are the real target.

The tell is simple: legitimate toll agencies do not text unsolicited payment links to people who don’t have an account, and the balance is never collected through a random texted link. Before you tap anything or pay a cent, paste the link and see the risk score.