Text scam requests payment for ‘unpaid tolls’, NCDOT warns

Chloe Rafferty
·1 min read

NOTE: The accompanying video explains how to report a scam to the Better Business Bureau

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — The North Carolina Department of Transportation is warning of a recent scam where victims are targeted for “unpaid tolls” via text message.

On Friday, NCDOT said the North Carolina Turnpike Authority was alerted of the text message-based scam, also known as “smishing.”

They said the scammer fraudulently claims to represent tolling agencies from across the county, and requesting payment for “unpaid tolls.”

The phone numbers that are targeted seem to be chosen at random and are not uniquely associated with an account or usage of toll roads, according to NCDOT.

Officials said N.C. Quick Pass customers can verify a valid text notification in several ways:

According to investigators, this “smishing” scam is among a series of “smishing” scams that the FBI is aware of.

Anyone who receives fraudulent messages is asked to do the following:

  • File a complaint with the IC3, www.ic3.gov, be sure to include:

    • The phone number from where the text originated.

    • The website listed within the text

  • Check your account using the toll service’s legitimate website.

  • Contact the toll service’s customer service phone number.

  • Delete any smishing texts received.

  • If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.

Anyone with questions about N.C. Quick Pass notifications is encouraged to contact them at ncquickpass.com.

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