The FBI warns of a surge in text message scams impersonating state tolling agencies, urging citizens to be cautious of requests for unpaid toll payments. These smishing attacks can lead to identity theft and financial loss.
The FBI has issued a warning about a nationwide surge in text message scams impersonating state tolling agencies. These smishing attacks, which began in March 2024, involve texts demanding payment for unpaid tolls. The texts often include a link that, when clicked, can steal personal information like driver's license numbers and lead to identity theft.
The FBI urges citizens to verify any toll payment requests through official websites or customer service phone numbers and to delete suspicious texts. Anyone who has fallen victim to this scam is advised to secure their personal and financial information and dispute any unauthorized charges.\The scam has spread rapidly across multiple states, with reports from Massachusetts, California, North and South Carolina, Illinois, Colorado, Florida, and more. The texts typically employ similar language and a consistent style, making them appear legitimate. The FBI believes the perpetrators are likely organized crime groups using sophisticated phishing kits developed by Chinese cybercriminals. These kits are designed to target toll services in various states and have also been used to impersonate shipping companies, tax agencies, and immigration services.\Beyond stealing payment card details, these criminal gangs aim to add them to mobile wallets and make fraudulent purchases or launder money through shell companies. The FBI emphasizes the widespread nature of this threat, noting that similar scams have been reported globally. They provide practical advice to protect against these attacks: verify toll payment requests through official channels, delete suspicious texts, and be wary of unsolicited requests for personal or financial information. By following these guidelines, individuals can minimize the risk of becoming victims of this evolving smishing scam
Smishing Toll Scam Cybercrime FBI Warning Identity Theft Phishing Attacks Text Message Fraud
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