E-ZPass Scam Spreads to Massachusetts: How to Protect Yourself from Smishing Attacks
A new scam targeting E-ZPass customers has made its way to Massachusetts, following its earlier appearance in New Hampshire and Rhode Island. The scam involves fraudulent text messages, commonly referred to as "smishing," that trick recipients into paying fake toll fees by clicking on a link. The messages warn of “excessive late fees” unless a balance of $6.99 is paid immediately. The texts seem official, creating a sense of urgency and fear of penalties, which entices recipients to take quick action. However, these messages are nothing more than a clever ruse to steal personal and financial information.
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What’s most concerning is that the scam texts are being sent to random phone numbers, and they are not linked to any real toll charges or accounts. This means that even if you haven't used the toll roads recently, you could be targeted. According to MassDOT, the official agency behind the EZDriveMA system, these phishing attempts are a serious issue. They emphasize that E-ZPass will never request payments via text messages, and any legitimate communication from them will only come from their official website, www .EZDriveMA .com .
Several variations of the scam messages have been reported, some suggesting toll balances are overdue and claiming that immediate action is necessary to avoid financial consequences. As of now, over 2,000 complaints have been filed, according to the FBI, which is investigating these fraudulent activities across multiple states. The scam has affected users from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has warned residents to stay vigilant and not to respond to these unsolicited text messages. If you receive one of these suspicious messages, it’s crucial to not click any links. Instead, you should delete the message immediately. In the case that you have already clicked on a link or provided sensitive information, MassDOT advises you to take precautions. This includes monitoring your bank statements for unauthorized transactions and contacting your financial institutions to report any suspicious activities.
If you do receive such a message, the first step is to forward it to 7726 (SPAM) , which alerts your phone carrier to block the sender. Additionally, it’s important to report the scam to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center so they can track and investigate the fraudulent activity.
Remember, E-ZPass systems, whether in Massachusetts or elsewhere, will never ask for toll payments via text or direct you to unofficial websites. Always rely on official channels, such as the EZDriveMA website or mobile app, to manage your account. Protecting yourself against these scams is essential, as it’s easy to fall prey to their tactics without taking the proper precautions. Stay alert, and keep your information safe!
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