Ohio Turnpike warning about digital phishing scams with fraudulent tolls text requests
The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission wants drivers to stay safe and avoid falling for a fraudulent text scam requesting payment for unpaid tolls through fake websites.
They’re issuing a warning about a nationwide text scam stealing money from Ohioans.
The Ohio Turnpike will not send text messages requesting payment for unpaid tolls; they’re only sending them through the U.S. Mail, according to a video statement from the Ohio Turnpike.
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The fraudulent phishing texts include a clickable link to a fake website that looks like it’s the official government site.
If you’ve received a suspicious or fraudulent text, do not click the link or provide any personal information. The Ohio Turnpike recommends deleting the messages right away.
If you are unsure of anything about payments with the Ohio Turnpike, call (440) 971-2222 to talk to the agency’s customer service representatives.
What to do if you accidentally entered payment information?
Anyone who clicked a fraudulent link and provided personal information should immediately contact the bank or credit card provider to secure your financial accounts and lock your card.
You can also submit an online report to the Federal Trade Commission.
If you get an unwanted text message, there are two other ways to report it, according to the FTC:
- Copy the message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your wireless provider spot and block similar messages in the future.
- Report it to Apple or Android, depending on the messaging app you use. Look for the option to report junk or spam.
3 warning signs to look out for with digital phishing scams
Sometimes it’s difficult to decipher when a scammer is trying to lure you with a phishing scam, especially when there are multiple methods to reach you, like text, email, social media and more.
Experts say Ohioans have lost money through imposter scams, when someone poses as a government agency or organization to steal money, according to the FTC.
Be cautious about opening attachments from suspicious sources; call the organization directly, like a customer service representative, to check with them.
Check the recipient’s call details; if you get a text coming from a strange or random number, it’s not real.
In the video from the Ohio Turnpike, the messages show the scam puts pressure on the recipient to act quickly.
Texts claimed the fee would increase if it’s not paid within a certain time frame, like 12 hours, a tactic to make the recipient feel pressured to pay.
