A new scam involving fake text messages claiming unpaid TxTag toll bills is circulating in the United States, including Texas, prompting warnings from law enforcement. The fraudulent messages ask for immediate payment and threaten penalties for non-payment, while urging recipients to click on a link. However, this link could expose personal and financial information to hackers.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has warned residents about these deceptive texts, stating that TxTag does not send payment requests via text message. FBI Special Agent Keith Custer warns that scammers are trying to gather personal information to access financial accounts and cause damage.
To avoid falling for the scam, the Better Business Bureau recommends verifying outstanding toll balances with the legitimate agency, watching for suspicious text indicators, and never clicking on random links or providing personal information. Texans who receive these texts should report them to TxTag, law enforcement, and share warnings with others.
Officials caution against urgent demands for payment, as scammers often try to create panic and pressure recipients to act quickly. To stay safe, experts advise against reusing passwords across multiple accounts.
Law enforcement agencies and organizations, including the FBI, AARP, and the Henderson County District Attorney’s Office, have also issued warnings about the scam. Recipients are advised to delete the messages immediately and report them to proper authorities.
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