In today’s tech-driven world, it’s hard to imagine life without our smartphones. However, there’s a new warning from the FBI that all iPhone and Android users need to pay attention to.
The rise of technology has not only made our lives easier but has also opened new avenues for sneaky scammers to target us directly.
Alert from the FBI
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has highlighted a new scam that could affect anyone with a smartphone. While scams themselves are nothing new, the methods fraudsters are using are becoming increasingly crafty. If you find yourself getting strange texts, you should take immediate action.
These scammers are sending out messages claiming that you have unpaid road tolls. It doesn’t matter if you don’t drive or if road tolls are nonexistent in your state, the message still gets sent. Scammers have been casting a wide net, hoping to reel in a few unsuspecting victims.
How the Scam Works
The message typically demands payment for supposed toll debts, with a link provided for you to “settle” these debts. Clicking on such links is a trap.
They’re looking to get your personal information, such as bank details or credit card numbers. This doesn’t just risk your money, but your personal identity as well.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) elaborates that these texts might show a specific amount you allegedly owe and direct you to websites to enter sensitive info.
But be warned, it’s a phishing scam. The end goal is not just to take money but to gather enough personal information to commit identity theft.
Reactions from the Public
People have been sharing their experiences on social media, buzzing about the text messages they’ve been receiving. One person noted, “I’m getting these texts even though I never use toll roads. It’s obviously a scam, but it’s quite annoying.”
Scammers we don’t have tolls in CT. Maybe try to scam someone in a state where they do have tolls pic.twitter.com/E2VnzN8GfW
— Mike (@Mikem717) February 8, 2025
Another user from Connecticut commented on how even areas without tolls are being targeted. “They’re trying to scam here where we don’t have road tolls,” they added, chuckling at the scammers’ oversight.
What You Should Do
If you find yourself on the receiving end of one of these messages, the FTC has some straightforward advice:
First, don’t respond to, or click any links, from unexpected texts. It’s crucial to remain calm and not act impulsively. These scammers are counting on you to react without thinking.
Secondly, verify any claims. If you’re worried, contact the actual toll agency through trusted, official channels—not through the contact information provided in the text. Always use sources you are confident are legitimate.
Finally, report and dispose of these texts. Use your smartphone’s ‘report junk’ feature or just delete the text after you’ve confirmed it’s a scam. You can also forward spam or scam messages to 7726 (SPAM) for reporting.
This isn’t just a simple personal inconvenience; it’s a matter that could have very serious consequences if personal information is leaked. Stay vigilant, be skeptical of unexpected texts, and always verify claims from a reliable source.
