AUSTIN, Texas — Did you recently get a text about an unpaid toll road balance? Yeah, it's a scam.
The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) is warning drivers of a new text message scam claiming to be from the agency.
The text claims the driver has an outstanding toll charge that needs to be addressed.
The toll road authority says it will never send texts that include or ask for personal information, including amounts owed. CTRMA is also telling users not to open any of the links sent from those texts and to make sure all bills are paid through its website.
In April, the FBI warned Texans about a similar "smishing" message that contained a link, stating there would be a late fee if the outstanding balance was not paid. The FBI said the links would lead to websites impersonating toll services like TxTag or the Central Texas Mobility Authority.
What to do if you receive a toll text
The FBI says you should take several steps to keep your personal information and bank accounts secure.
First, file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) which includes the phone number and website listed in the text. Don't click the link, but monitor your accounts in case you need to dispute any unfamiliar charges.
Secondly, check your account using the toll service's website and contact their customer service line about the scam text. Lastly, be sure to delete any texts received.
What is smishing?
If you're familiar with phishing attacks, smishing is pretty similar.
The FBI says smishing is a social engineered attack that uses fake text messages to trick people into downloading malware, sharing sensitive information or sending money to cybercriminals. The word smishing combines phishing with "short message service," or SMS.
The CTRMA said it does not send texts without consent and does not include or ask for personal information, including dollar amounts owed. It only sends texts to those who have opted in to receive payment reminders.