Watch Out for Toll Text Scams
Jul 16, 2025 | posted by Lily Chavez
Are you planning a road trip? Or have you just returned from one? Summer is still in full swing, and you might find yourself crossing a bridge or two on your way to your next destination. Whether you're on vacation or not, you might receive a strange text message claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls. The message may urge you to pay immediately through a provided link.
Before you panic and reach for your wallet, take a moment—this could be a scam.
Scammers are increasingly posing as tolling agencies to trick people into sending money.
How to Spot a Toll Texting Scam:
The message creates a sense of urgency, pressuring you to pay right away.
It comes from a random number or an unofficial contact.
You haven’t recently driven through a toll or over a bridge.
The message contains grammar mistakes or awkward language.
What You Should Do:
Before clicking on any links, do not engage. Instead, report and delete the message. Most phones have a “Report Junk” or “Report Spam” option you can use. If not, you can forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) to report it.
More tips from the FTC on how to spot and avoid text scams: visit ftc.gov/textscams