Got a text about unpaid tolls? It's almost always a scam

The text shows up out of nowhere. It names a real toll system, gives a small amount, and says you have to pay today or face fines. It looks official enough that a lot of people tap the link before they think twice.

The message

NOTICE: You have an outstanding toll of $6.99. Pay by today to avoid a late fee of $50 and suspension of your registration. Pay now: [link]

That's an example of the kind of text going around. The amount is small on purpose. Scammers want it to feel like a quick thing you can just pay and forget.

How the scam works

The link opens a page made to look like a toll agency. When you "pay" the small fee, you hand over your card number, and sometimes your name, address, and driver's license number too. The FTC says these texts copy toll systems all over the country, so they can reach people in any state.

The red flags

• The text came out of the blue. Real toll agencies bill by mail or through an account you set up.
• It says pay today or else. Threats like fines, license suspension, or registration holds are there to rush you.
• The link isn't the agency's real website. Scam links often use odd spellings or long strings of letters.
• It's for a state you haven't driven in. That alone tells you it's fake.

What to do

1. Don't tap the link or reply. Replying, even "STOP," tells scammers your number works.
2. Check it yourself. Type your toll agency's real website into your browser, or call the number on a bill you already have. If there's no balance there, there's nothing to pay.
3. Report it. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), or use your phone's "Report junk" option.
4. Delete it.

Already paid or entered your card?

1. Call your bank or card company now using the number on the back of your card. Ask them to stop the charge and send a new card.
2. If you entered your driver's license or other personal info, watch your accounts closely. A free credit freeze with each of the three credit bureaus stops new accounts in your name.
3. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If your identity was used, go to IdentityTheft.gov for a recovery plan.

Help a parent spot it

Toll texts work because they're boring. Nobody expects a $6.99 bill to be a trap. Tell the people you love one simple rule: never pay a bill from a link in a text. Go to the real website yourself, every time.