The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is warning toll road drivers about an uptick in texting scams that target TollTag consumers. The scam works like this. TxTag customers receive text messages claiming to have a balance due or past due, when in reality they don't.
TxDOT says there have been multiple reports of these SMS text phishing scams, also known as smishing, since April, but that they appear to have increased recently. TxDOT says it's working to have fraudulent websites taken down in hopes of preventing customers from becoming victims.
Here's what you should know.
TxTag says it takes customer account security and verification very seriously. TxTag says it currently communicates with customers via email, text and outbound phone calls, but that it will not send text messages regarding final payment reminders or past due balances. Any text messages sent to TxTag customers will be sent from 22498.
If you receive an unsolicited text, email or message purporting to be from TxTag or another toll agency, TxDOT asks TxTag customers to contact TxTag Customer Service directly at TxTag.org or by calling 1-888-468-9824. If you do get a suspect text - never click on or open any links.
Also be aware that emails and texts are sent to the email address and/or the phone number that customers provide in their account. Also, TxTag customers have to opt in to into email and/or text notifications in order to receive emails and/or texts from TxTag. If you're not sure if you're opted into email and/or text notifications, you can find out by logging in your TxTag online account or contact TxTag customer service to confirm.
TxTag requires all customers to confirm their account information and verify their identity before providing any information to ensure they are speaking with the correct person on the account.
Again, if you receive a fraudulent text TxTag customers should o contact TxTag Customer Service directly at TxTag.org or by calling 1-888-468-9824. Anyone who believes they have received a fraudulent text can file a complaint with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov. The FBI posted more information on this scam online.
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