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Tag: Scam
National Grid phone scam hits St. Lawrence County
BY JOSH DAVIS
North Country This WeekOGDENSBURG– A new round of phone scams is circulating in St. Lawrence County.
Sherman Inn owner Donna Reagen says her business in Ogdensburg received a scam call from someone claiming to be from National Grid and attempting to collect an overdue bill.
“I knew it was false,” she said, but wanted to make the public aware to prevent others from becoming subject to fraud.
She said she was given a case number to provide with a payment, adding that these types of calls try to intimidate the answerer into complying with their demands.
“You get into a panic” she said, saying that scammers use fear to urge their victims into compliance.
State Police Public Information officer Brandi Ashley said that Troopers had not been alerted of the National Grid scam as of Thursday morning, but warned against providing any personal information over the phone.
Trooper Ashley also warned against ever using gift cards as a form of payment.
Do not send gift cards for a type payment if people are requesting it, is the main thing we need to focus on. Do not provide personal information over the phone.
National Grid is aware of these scams and provides information to help consumers know when a scammer is calling.
The utility says that your Caller ID may even say “National Grid” when a scammer is calling, but does not call consumers to collect payments in this fashion.
If you are dealing with someone over the phone, note that National Grid representatives will know your account number; never offer that information to a caller.
Consumers can also ask the caller to provide the last five digits of their National Grid account number.
If the caller doesn’t know your account number and you have any doubt the caller is a National Grid representative, or if they have any questions about your account balance, hang up immediately.
Call National Grid, local law enforcement, or New York State Police. You can also report fraud and suspicious communications to the FTC.
Be warned! A National Grid phone scam is currently targeting residents in St. Lawrence County. Scammers are posing as National Grid representatives and threatening to shut off power unless immediate payment is made over the phone.It’s important to remember that National Grid does not conduct business in this manner. If you receive a call like this, do not provide any personal or payment information. Hang up immediately and report the scam to National Grid.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed and vigilant against these fraudulent activities. Share this warning with your friends and family to ensure they are aware of the scam as well. Stay safe and stay aware!
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National Grid phone scam, St. Lawrence County, utility scam, phone fraud, scam alert, National Grid scam, St. Lawrence County scam, phone scam warning, utility phone scam
#National #Grid #phone #scam #hits #Lawrence #CountyKansas police department warning of scam Facebook posts warning of ‘killers’ on the loose | Home
Attention Kansas residents: The local police department is warning of a scam circulating on Facebook that falsely claims there are ‘killers’ on the loose in the area.Please be cautious of any posts or messages you see on social media that are spreading this false information. The police department has confirmed that there are no active threats in the area and that this is simply a hoax designed to incite fear and panic among residents.
If you come across any suspicious posts or messages claiming there are ‘killers’ on the loose, please report them to the authorities immediately. Do not share or spread this misinformation any further.
Stay vigilant and stay safe, Kansas. Let’s work together to combat these scams and keep our community informed and protected.
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- Kansas police department
- Scam Facebook posts
- Killers on the loose
- Police warning
- Scam alert
- Facebook scam
- Public safety
- Kansas news
- Online scams
- Social media safety
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Mum, 42, among eight Britons charged over ‘£9.5m Spanish holiday food poisoning scam’ | World | News
A British mum has been charged along with several others over an alledged scam that saw hotels pay out £9.5million on bogus food poisoning complaints. The scammers allegedly targeted hotels on the Spanish island of Majorca by encouraging tourists to make up food poisoning claims as part of a money-making racket. A mother from Essex has been charged with running the suspected holiday scam along with seven other Britons.
Laura Joyce,42, from Essex was charged along with her brother Marc Cameron.
The siblings have been accused of being the ringleaders of a “profit-motivated organised gang”.
They are believed to have run the racket under the guise of a Spanish company called Elite Project Marketing SL.
Joyce and Cameron now face trial alongside five other Britons they are alleged to have recruited to entice holidaymakers into playing along in scam, along with the UK-based businessman who managed the process.
The suspected scammers have been accused of fraud and membership of a criminal gang.”
Those charged have been named as Ryan Bridges, Simon Robert Flanagan, Tegan Jewel Sumerlee, Susan Amanda Lyle, Nicola Marie Sanderson and Peter Carl Murphy.
A court ruling in Majorca read: “The gang specialised in obtaining the details of British tourists in all-inclusive hotels in Majorca it convinced, through a form they themselves elaborated, to falsely claim they had been ill during their stay in one of those hotels and be able to claim compensation in the UK.”
Police detectives believe the scammers’ activities cost three hotel groups around £9.5 million between 2016 and 2017.
A heavily pregnant Joyce was arrested in September 2017 before making a court appearance in May 2018.
Joyce’s lawyer Gabriel Llado has said his client confessed to handing over contact details of holidaymakers for payment but insisted this was done as part of a market research venture.
He denied that Joyce or any of the individuals she used to gather information from tourists had encouraged them to falsify food poisoning claims using chemist receipts.
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He stated that Joyce had only been involved in this activity for a short period of time and quit because she was not earning enough.
The 42-year-old who was charged under her maiden name Cameron denies her role in the scam.
Additional reporting by Gerard Couzens.
In a shocking turn of events, a British mother, aged 42, has been charged alongside seven other Britons in connection with a £9.5m holiday food poisoning scam in Spain. The group is accused of filing fraudulent claims for food poisoning during their vacations in order to receive compensation.Authorities in Spain have been cracking down on this type of scam, which has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. The accused individuals are facing serious charges of fraud and could potentially face significant penalties if found guilty.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of trying to cheat the system for personal gain. It is a sobering reminder that dishonesty and deceit will eventually catch up with you.
As the investigation continues, it is important for tourists to be vigilant and honest when it comes to making claims for compensation. This type of behavior not only harms the reputation of genuine victims of food poisoning but also puts a strain on the resources of the travel industry.
Let this be a cautionary tale for anyone considering taking advantage of the system for financial gain. The consequences are not worth the risk.
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- Spanish holiday scam
- Mum charged in £9.5m scam
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- UK nationals charged in Spanish scam
- Holiday sickness scam in Spain
- 42-year-old woman charged in scam
- British tourists accused of food poisoning fraud
- Spain holiday scam news
- UK nationals facing charges in Spanish scam
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Florida drivers warned about phishing scam targeting SunPass toll payments
Florida drivers are being warned about a new SunPass phishing scam circulating via text message.The message claims to be from SunPass, Florida’s electronic toll collection system, which warns recipients about unpaid tolls.It urges them to pay by Jan. 21, 2025, to avoid late fees and legal action. The message reads as follows:”Please pay your toll in Florida by January 21, 2025. In order to avoid excessive late fees and legal action on statements, please pay the tolls in time. Thank you for your cooperation and wish you a pleasant holiday.”A link is provided in the text, prompting the recipient to click and pay the supposed unpaid tolls. However, if you receive such a text, do not click the link. This is a phishing scam designed to steal your personal information or money.The SunPass system does not typically send unsolicited text messages demanding immediate payment. If you have any concerns about your toll account, it’s best to visit the official SunPass website or contact their customer service directly.Avoid relying on links sent via text or email. If you receive the message, don’t click on any links or provide personal information.Instead, forward the suspicious message to your mobile carrier or email provider, and consider reporting the scam to the Federal Trade Commission or Florida’s Attorney General.To verify any concerns about your SunPass account, log in directly to your account at SunPass or call their customer service.Stay cautious and be aware that scammers often create a sense of urgency, threaten legal action, and use suspicious links in their messages.Always double-check the legitimacy of any communication asking for payment or personal details. By staying aware, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this and other scams.DOWNLOAD the free NBC2 News app for your latest news and weather alerts.
FORT MYERS, Fla. —Florida drivers are being warned about a new SunPass phishing scam circulating via text message.
The message claims to be from SunPass, Florida’s electronic toll collection system, which warns recipients about unpaid tolls.
It urges them to pay by Jan. 21, 2025, to avoid late fees and legal action. The message reads as follows:
“Please pay your toll in Florida by January 21, 2025. In order to avoid excessive late fees and legal action on statements, please pay the tolls in time. Thank you for your cooperation and wish you a pleasant holiday.“
A link is provided in the text, prompting the recipient to click and pay the supposed unpaid tolls. However, if you receive such a text, do not click the link. This is a phishing scam designed to steal your personal information or money.
The SunPass system does not typically send unsolicited text messages demanding immediate payment. If you have any concerns about your toll account, it’s best to visit the official SunPass website or contact their customer service directly.
Avoid relying on links sent via text or email. If you receive the message, don’t click on any links or provide personal information.
Instead, forward the suspicious message to your mobile carrier or email provider, and consider reporting the scam to the Federal Trade Commission or Florida’s Attorney General.
To verify any concerns about your SunPass account, log in directly to your account at SunPass or call their customer service.
Stay cautious and be aware that scammers often create a sense of urgency, threaten legal action, and use suspicious links in their messages.
Always double-check the legitimacy of any communication asking for payment or personal details. By staying aware, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this and other scams.
DOWNLOAD the free NBC2 News app for your latest news and weather alerts.
Attention Florida drivers! Beware of a new phishing scam targeting SunPass toll payments. Scammers are sending out emails pretending to be from SunPass, requesting drivers to update their payment information.These emails may contain links to fake websites that mimic the SunPass payment portal, where scammers can steal your personal and financial information. Remember, SunPass will never ask for your personal information or payment details via email.
To protect yourself from falling victim to this scam, always double-check the sender’s email address, never click on suspicious links, and contact SunPass directly if you have any doubts about the authenticity of an email. Stay vigilant and spread the word to help prevent others from becoming victims of this scam. Drive safely! #SunPassScam #PhishingAlert #FloridaDrivers
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- Florida drivers
- phishing scam
- SunPass toll payments
- Florida toll roads
- cyber security
- online fraud
- SunPass account
- toll payment scam
- Florida transportation
- Internet safety
#Florida #drivers #warned #phishing #scam #targeting #SunPass #toll #payments
What is EZDriveMa scam? What to know about E-ZPass texts
Scammers are at it again with fake E-ZPass texts claiming you owe unpaid tolls.
The messages are an extension of the EZDriveMa scam that’s been catching people off guard recently.
Here’s what you need to know to avoid getting ripped off.
What is the EZDriveMa scam?
Scammers are targeting E-ZPass users in several states with a simple con designed to snatch your account credentials.
You get a text message that looks like it’s from E-ZPass or EZDriveMA, Massachusetts’ toll system, that says you owe money for tolls and need to pay immediately.
The messages claims you owe a modest amount — typically $6.99 — in unpaid tolls. That’s part of the effectiveness of the scam, because it’s such a minor amount that most people wouldn’t question it.
But, they’re not after the $6.99; they want your identity.
The official-looking link is fake and will direct you to a site where scammers will pull down your personal and financial information.
Here’s the deal: E-ZPass doesn’t text you for payment. Ever.
So, if you get one of these texts, don’t click the link; simply delete it, tell your friends to do the same if they get one and move on.
If you’re concerned that you might owe money to E-ZPass, use your normal process for checking your account.
If you already fell for it — it happens — you’ll want to call your bank and credit card companies to freeze or monitor your accounts.
You should also immediately change your passwords for E-ZPass, your bank accounts and credit card logins.
Then, keep an eye out for any odd charges and know how to dispute them.
EZDriveMA is not a scam; it is the electronic toll collection system used in Massachusetts. However, there have been reports of scam texts claiming to be from E-ZPass, the electronic toll collection system used in other states.Here’s what you need to know about E-ZPass texts:
1. E-ZPass will never ask for personal information or payment through text message. If you receive a text asking for this information, it is likely a scam.
2. Scammers may use official-looking logos and language to trick you into providing your personal information. Always verify the sender before responding to any text messages.
3. If you are unsure about the authenticity of a text message claiming to be from E-ZPass, contact E-ZPass directly to confirm its legitimacy.
In conclusion, while EZDriveMA is a legitimate toll collection system in Massachusetts, be cautious of any texts claiming to be from E-ZPass that ask for personal information or payment. Stay vigilant and protect your personal information from potential scams.
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EZDriveMA scam, E-ZPass scam, EZDriveMA review, E-ZPass texts scam, Massachusetts toll scam, E-ZPass fraud, toll violation, EZDriveMA warning, E-ZPass text messages, toll collection scam
#EZDriveMa #scam #EZPass #textsWhat to know about a FasTrak text message scam in California
Have you received a text message urging you to pay a FasTrak fee? It’s a scam. The message looks like this: “In order to avoid excessive late fees and potential legal action on statements, please pay the fee in time.” It also includes a link to a website. Instead of being a real notice to pay your bill, the message is a “smishing” scam. Smishing is a phishing attempt by text message aimed at stealing your personal or credit card information. “FasTrak, the electronic toll collection system used statewide in California, does not request payment by text with a link to a website,” California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in issuing a consumer alert about the problem in July. The FBI warned last April that the problem didn’t just impact California but was related to road toll services in at least three states. At the time, the FBI said its Internet Crime Complaint Center had received 2,000 complaints of smishing attempts since early March.The FBI’s smishing example included a fake message warning of a small outstanding toll amount with a much higher late fee if the target didn’t pay up. KCRA 3 has reached out to the FBI for an update on the number of recent complaints. John Goodwin, a spokesperson with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and Bay Area Toll Authority, said he wasn’t sure if there has been an increase in FasTrak text scams lately, but that it “is clear that a lot of California mobile phone customers have received fraudulent text messages over the past several weeks.” He said that it’s been an ongoing problem since last February.“The problem has bedeviled mobile phone customers and toll agencies alike almost constantly during this time,” he said. “But the messages change frequently. Broadly speaking, the scamsters’ spelling and syntax has improved, but remain imperfect.”The website fastrak.org now includes a warning message to disregard phishing texts that detail a specific outstanding toll amount. What to do if you get one of these texts The FBI recommends that those who receive one of these texts file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and include the phone number where the text originated and the website that is listed with the text. You should then delete the text message. If you clicked any link or provided your information, the FBI recommends making efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. California’s attorney general says people can also file complaints with the Federal Trade Commission and his office. His office also recommends the following tips for avoiding toll scams. Don’t rush to click on links or respond to the texts.Check with your tolling agency if you’re worried the text is not legit. Only use a phone number or website that you know is real.You can also use your phone’s “report junk” feature.Once you’ve reported the scam, don’t engage with the sender and instead delete the message.See news happening? Send us your photos or videos if it’s safe to do so at kcra.com/upload.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —Have you received a text message urging you to pay a FasTrak fee? It’s a scam.
The message looks like this: “In order to avoid excessive late fees and potential legal action on statements, please pay the fee in time.” It also includes a link to a website.
Instead of being a real notice to pay your bill, the message is a “smishing” scam. Smishing is a phishing attempt by text message aimed at stealing your personal or credit card information.
“FasTrak, the electronic toll collection system used statewide in California, does not request payment by text with a link to a website,” California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in issuing a consumer alert about the problem in July.
The FBI warned last April that the problem didn’t just impact California but was related to road toll services in at least three states. At the time, the FBI said its Internet Crime Complaint Center had received 2,000 complaints of smishing attempts since early March.
The FBI’s smishing example included a fake message warning of a small outstanding toll amount with a much higher late fee if the target didn’t pay up.
KCRA 3 has reached out to the FBI for an update on the number of recent complaints.
John Goodwin, a spokesperson with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and Bay Area Toll Authority, said he wasn’t sure if there has been an increase in FasTrak text scams lately, but that it “is clear that a lot of California mobile phone customers have received fraudulent text messages over the past several weeks.”
He said that it’s been an ongoing problem since last February.
“The problem has bedeviled mobile phone customers and toll agencies alike almost constantly during this time,” he said. “But the messages change frequently. Broadly speaking, the scamsters’ spelling and syntax has improved, but remain imperfect.”
The website fastrak.org now includes a warning message to disregard phishing texts that detail a specific outstanding toll amount.
What to do if you get one of these texts
The FBI recommends that those who receive one of these texts file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and include the phone number where the text originated and the website that is listed with the text. You should then delete the text message.
If you clicked any link or provided your information, the FBI recommends making efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts.
California’s attorney general says people can also file complaints with the Federal Trade Commission and his office.
His office also recommends the following tips for avoiding toll scams.
- Don’t rush to click on links or respond to the texts.
- Check with your tolling agency if you’re worried the text is not legit. Only use a phone number or website that you know is real.
- You can also use your phone’s “report junk” feature.
- Once you’ve reported the scam, don’t engage with the sender and instead delete the message.
See news happening? Send us your photos or videos if it’s safe to do so at kcra.com/upload.
See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter
With the rise of electronic toll collection systems like FasTrak in California, scammers are finding new ways to target unsuspecting victims. One recent scam that has been circulating involves fake text messages claiming to be from FasTrak.Here’s what you need to know about the FasTrak text message scam:
1. The scam typically involves a text message claiming to be from FasTrak, informing the recipient that they have an outstanding toll violation that needs to be paid immediately. The message may include a link or phone number to contact in order to resolve the issue.
2. FasTrak does not typically send text messages about toll violations. If you receive a text message claiming to be from FasTrak, be cautious and do not click on any links or provide any personal information.
3. Do not provide any personal information, such as your social security number, credit card information, or driver’s license number, to anyone claiming to be from FasTrak over text message.
4. If you receive a suspicious text message claiming to be from FasTrak, you can contact FasTrak directly to verify the information. Their official website and customer service number can be found online.
5. Report any suspicious text messages to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local law enforcement agency. By reporting these scams, you can help prevent others from falling victim to fraudulent activity.
Remember to always be cautious when receiving unsolicited messages, especially when they involve payment or personal information. Stay informed and stay safe!
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FasTrak scam California, FasTrak text message scam, California scam alert, FasTrak fraud, FasTrak phishing scam, California cybersecurity, FasTrak scam warning
#FasTrak #text #message #scam #CaliforniaMan who helped in $700K interstate casino scam convicted
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — He helped convince a Four Winds employee to take $700K from the casino across state lines – now he faces up to 15 years in prison.
Jesus Gaytan-Garcia, 45, of Chicago was found guilty of theft from an Indian tribal organization— a 5-year felony, given the amount— and interstate transportation of stolen money, which could cost him an additional 10 years in prison according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
“This case underscores the need for businesses, organizations, and citizens to be diligent and cautious about phone and internet scams,” said US Attorney, Mark Totten.
On July 30, 2023, someone called the Hartford Four Winds Casino claiming to be a tribal chairperson in urgent need of funds and convinced a supervisory there to bring it from Michigan to a gas station in Gary, IN. The employee handed over the cash to 2 unknown men, telling investigators they’d been misled by whoever called the casino.
“Thanks to the persistent and dedicated investigators at the Pokagon Tribal Police Department and FBI, Mr. Gaytan-Garcia was identified as one of the perpetrators of this theft-scam and is being held accountable for this bold crime.” said Totten.
According to a release sent to FOX 17 from Totten’s office, Gayton-Garcia was one of the men at the gas station and the federal jury’s decision was made based on evidence found in his home— a bundle of cash wrapped with a paper band marked with not only the casino’s location, but the exact date of the theft.
“The cooperative efforts of the FBI and our tribal law enforcement has resulted in justice for the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi Indians,” said Pokagon Band Chief of Police Mario RedLegs. “I am extremely proud of the professional teamwork that was put forth by those involved in the investigation. The diligence of the investigative team and the U.S. Attorney’s Office was vital to hold Mr. Gaytan-Garcia responsible for the crimes he committed against the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.”
The trial was prosecuted by the US Attorney’s office for the Western District of Michigan and investigated by the FBI and Pokagon Band Tribal Police.
“The conviction of Jesus Gaytan-Garcia represents a significant step toward justice and healing for the Pokagon Tribal Community,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan.
A date for sentencing has yet to be set.
In a recent court ruling, a man who played a role in a $700,000 interstate casino scam has been convicted of fraud and conspiracy charges. The elaborate scheme involved using fake identities and stolen credit card information to gamble at casinos in multiple states, ultimately defrauding the establishments of hundreds of thousands of dollars.The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found guilty of working with a group of individuals to carry out the scam, which spanned several months and involved meticulous planning and coordination. The group would travel from casino to casino, using counterfeit credit cards and false identification to rack up huge debts before disappearing without a trace.
Authorities were able to track down the man thanks to surveillance footage and witness testimony, ultimately leading to his arrest and subsequent conviction. He now faces a lengthy prison sentence and hefty fines for his role in the fraudulent operation.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the lengths some individuals will go to in order to cheat the system and exploit businesses for personal gain. It also highlights the importance of vigilance and security measures in place to prevent such scams from occurring in the future. Let this be a cautionary tale for anyone tempted to engage in illegal activities for financial gain – the consequences are severe and the risks far outweigh any potential rewards.
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- Fraudulent activities
- Criminal conviction
- $700K scam
- Casino fraud
- Legal consequences
- Criminal investigation
- Gambling scam
- Interstate crime
- Convicted accomplice
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People are getting texts about unpaid Pennsylvania Turnpike tolls again. Here’s how to tell it’s a scam.
A text message scam that first appeared in April has resurfaced claiming drivers owe money for unpaid tolls.
Adding to the confusion, it comes just weeks after the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s switch to open road tolling. But turnpike officials say customers will never get texts from the agency about payments.
The text typically includes a balance amount and a link to click on to pay it. Officials for toll agencies in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and across the country warn these texts are from scammers.
RELATED: Pennsylvania Turnpike officials warn about text message scam targeting financial information
This type of scam is known as “smishing” – SMS phishing – where fraudsters target your personal and banking information through phony texts.
Reports of bogus text messages have increased this week, officials with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission and Delaware Department of Transportation said. The agencies warned you should not click any link if you receive a text or email message like that saying it’s from E-ZPass or another toll agency.
The phony unpaid toll texts first started circulating last spring. The agency said the texts are not the result of a data breach of turnpike data and customer information has been and remains safe.
“These are just bad actors who are getting a bunch of random numbers and are sending the messages out hoping to try to lure someone and to get their data directly,” Crispin Havener, a turnpike spokesperson, said.
The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) and Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) also issued warnings after drivers reported receiving texts purporting to be from DriveEZMD and EZDriveMA.
E-ZPass and Toll By Plate customers can use approved safe methods to check their accounts, including the official Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware E-ZPass websites or the Toll Pay apps available from the Apple App Store or Google Play store.
Red flags to spot the scam
Typically these scam texts have several red flags indicating they’re not legit. One text shared with CBS News Philadelphia includes a scam link impersonating EZDriveMA, but the message was sent from a phone number starting with a +63, which is the country code for the Philippines.
Scam texts may also have misspellings or awkward grammar. If the message includes alarming, threatening, or urgent language, the PA Turnpike says it’s also likely a scam.
“Resist the pressure to act immediately. Honest businesses will give you time to make decisions when it comes to financial matters,” the agency said on its website. “Anyone who pressures you to pay or give them your personal information immediately is most likely a scammer.”
It remains unclear how and why certain people are being contacted, but “targeted phone numbers seem to be chosen at random and are not uniquely associated with an account or usage of toll roads,” North Carolina’s Department of Transportation previously warned.
How to know an unpaid toll text is real
If you do ever have an outstanding toll balance you will get multiple letters in the mail first.
The PA Turnpike said it will never text E-ZPass or Toll By Plate customers about unpaid tolls, but that it does work with two debt collection agencies that will text customers who have “significant overdue balances.”
These legitimate texts will come from either Harris and Harris or TSI and will include the driver’s name, company information, and details relating to your account.
Customers who get a fraudulent message can report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at http://www.ic3.gov/.
Have you recently received a text message claiming you have unpaid tolls on the Pennsylvania Turnpike? If so, you’re not alone. Scammers are once again targeting unsuspecting individuals with this common tactic. But don’t be fooled – here’s how to tell if it’s a scam:1. Check the sender: Legitimate communications from the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission will come from a verified source, such as E-ZPass or the PA Turnpike. If the sender looks suspicious or unfamiliar, it’s likely a scam.
2. Look for spelling and grammar errors: Scammers often make mistakes in their messages, including spelling and grammar errors. If the text contains these errors, proceed with caution.
3. Don’t click on any links: Scammers will often include links in their messages that, when clicked, can lead to malware or phishing sites. Avoid clicking on any links in the text message.
4. Contact the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission directly: If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of the text message, contact the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission directly to verify if you have any unpaid tolls.
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to potential scams. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from falling victim to fraudsters.
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#People #texts #unpaid #Pennsylvania #Turnpike #tolls #Heres #scamHow to recognize EZDriveMass and E-Z Pass phishing and smishing scam
QUINCY – My turn to receive the latest fraudulent “smishing” scam arrived at 9:27 a.m. Sunday when a text message appeared on my iPhone.
It told me that I owed money for unpaid tolls on state highways. I do drive a lot, sometimes using toll roads, so I might have found it possibly credible but I’d been forewarned about this one.
A colleague, Scott Bowdridge, of Walpole, had warned me three days earlier. I was just a bit late on the apparent robo messaging circuit. This EZDriveMass scam has been especially active here since the start of January, according to digital coach Grace Buscher, of Quincy. It was first reported in Massachusetts last June by the state.
The text messages claim to be from EZDriveMA, state that the recipient owes money for E-Z Pass tolls, but they are actually part of a “smishing” scam, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation has warned.
Last Thursday, Scott had emailed me, “I got a text message this morning from EzDriveMA, saying I had an unpaid toll that would carry a huge penalty if it wasn’t paid today. I ignored it because it should have been EZPass. Both my mom and I have gotten the post office one a couple of times in recent weeks.”
Why is this scam called ‘smishing?’
The term “smishing” is a combination of “SMS” (short message service) and “phishing.” Smishing is a form of phishing, the fraudulent practice of sending messages disguised as a reputable source to induce individuals to reveal personal and/or financial information, such as social security numbers, credit and debit card numbers, and account passwords.
Here’s how the EZDrive tolling program works
EZDrive is Massachusetts’ all-electronic road tolling program. It includes E-ZPassMA and Pay By Plate MA. The program works without toll booths on the Mass Turnpike (I-90), Tobin Memorial Bridge, and the Sumner, Callahan, and Ted Williams Tunnels. It has a smishing alert on its website.
I checked the Massachusetts EZDrive website.
It states that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation was alerted that a text message-based scam, also known as smishing, is fraudulently claiming to represent tolling agencies from across the country, not just Massachusetts. “The scammers are claiming to represent the tolling agency and requesting payment for unpaid tolls.”
The phone numbers that are targeted for these phony text messages “seem to be chosen at random and are not uniquely associated with an account or usage of toll roads.” Just because you get a fraudulent text message doesn’t mean there is evidence that you used a particular toll road.
I followed the advice the state gives.
- Customers who receive an unsolicited text, email, or similar message suggesting it is from EZDriveMA or another toll agency should not click on the link.
- The state gives advice on how to determine if an EZDriveMA text message is valid.
- EZDriveMA will never request payment by text
This particular smishing scam is part of a series of smishing scams of which the FBI is aware. The FBI has recommended that people who receive the fraudulent messages do the following:
If you get a fraudulent message, what to do
- File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center, the IC3, and be sure to include:
- The phone number from where the text originated.
- The website listed within the text
- Check your EZDrive account using the toll service’s legitimate website.
- Contact the toll service’s customer service phone number 877-627-7745.
- Delete any smishing texts received.
- If you clicked any link or provided your information, take steps to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.
Buscher, state and local police have encouraged people to stay alert to all types of scams.
You can contact www.EZDriveMA.com with any questions about EZDriveMA notifications.
Looking back at recent news stories, I saw that the Swansea police were one of early police departments to warn of this smishing scam. On Jan. 10, Norwell police posted a warning, with photo of the text message, on its Facebook Page.
A few months ago, in early November the Braintree Police Department also posted a warning about a variety of smishing scams, with text messages and stated, “SCAM ALERT: Smishing cases on the rise.”
Scammers really want you to click and lead them to your personal info
Smishing has been described in different AI summaries as a type of cybercrime that involves sending deceptive text messages to trick people into giving away personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Victims are seen as more likely to click on links in text messages than emails and phone calls, partly due to advances in spam filters.
A phony text message might claim that you’ve won a gift card from a big retailer. Or that a subscription or service is about to be canceled due to a payment issue. Or promote an app that sounds useful or entertaining but leads to malicious software.
Here’s how to protect yourself from smishing
- Don’t click on hyperlinks in texts from unknown or suspicious numbers.
- Be wary of shortened URLs in SMS messages.
- Don’t respond to texts from unknown or suspicious numbers.
- Keep your phone’s operating system up to date.
- Be aware of social engineering red flags, such as urgent messages or get-rich-quick fixes.
In Weymouth, Muriel Savoy Moloney, 94, relies on text messages to keep in touch with family and friends. She said that recently she has been getting text massages stating they are “from UPS about packages they can’t deliver because they don’t have the right address.
“I just delete them,” she said. “I also don’t pay any attention to email or texts that ask for information. If it is legitimate, they will usually send a letter.” She formerly worked in a bank in Boston and has a built-in filter.
Buscher said that the fraudulent postal text messages are especially prevalent during the holidays, when scammers know many people are mailing and receiving packages.
Buscher says: ‘Trust your gut instincts’ and delete, delete, delete
Buscher said she has received calls from seniors who have received both the unpaid tolls messages and other suspicious text messages about packages that supposedly can’t be delivered. These fake messages always ask for information.
“The people who call me say, ‘I don’t even drive into Boston,” Buscher said. ‘I tell them, in evaluating these messages, use your gut instincts. If it doesn’t sound right, or is too good to be true, delete it.”
That is what Buscher did when she received the unpaid tolls text message.
Her husband’s phone number is one digit after her own, and he received the same fraudulent message a short time after she did. “That suggests robocalls were being used,” she said.
Reach Sue Scheible at sscheible@patriotledger.com.
As technology advances, so do the tactics of scammers looking to steal your personal information. One common scam that has been on the rise is EZDriveMass and E-Z Pass phishing and smishing scams. These scams typically involve receiving emails or text messages that appear to be from EZDriveMass or E-Z Pass, asking you to verify your account information or make a payment.To help you recognize and avoid falling victim to these scams, here are some tips:
1. Check the sender: Always verify the sender’s email address or phone number. Scammers often use fake email addresses or phone numbers that may look similar to the official ones, but upon closer inspection, you can see the discrepancies.
2. Look for spelling and grammatical errors: Scam emails and text messages often contain spelling and grammatical errors. If you notice these mistakes, it’s likely a scam.
3. Avoid clicking on links: If you receive an email or text message asking you to click on a link to verify your account information or make a payment, do not click on it. Instead, go directly to the official EZDriveMass or E-Z Pass website to log in and check your account status.
4. Be cautious with personal information: Legitimate organizations like EZDriveMass or E-Z Pass will never ask for your personal information, such as your social security number or credit card information, via email or text message. If you are unsure about a request for personal information, contact the organization directly to verify.
5. Report suspicious activity: If you receive a suspicious email or text message claiming to be from EZDriveMass or E-Z Pass, report it to the organization and relevant authorities. This will help prevent others from falling victim to the scam.
By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim to EZDriveMass and E-Z Pass phishing and smishing scams. Remember, when in doubt, always verify the legitimacy of the communication before sharing any personal information.
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