TEXAS, USA — Texas toll road drivers might be at an increased risk of receiving scam texts.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is warning of scammers pretending to work for TxTag in order to message customers about current or missing payments.
This particular smishing scam first became a concern back in spring, but it has gotten progressively worse as of late. Now, TxDOT is urging drivers to stay cautious and never click on links from unfamiliar phone numbers.
The department said it would never text customers about payments, but it might text them for other matters. Users can also receive emails and phone calls.
Customers can ensure they are receiving legitimate texts if the 22498 number is used. Users can also visit their personal TxTag account to confirm their email and/or phone number in the company's system.
Otherwise, messages from other contacts claiming to be TxTag are illegitimate.
What do you do if you receive a smishing text?
Smishing, or text phishing, is the use of fake messages to convince users to click on software meant to steal information, also known as malware.
These scams might also encourage recipients to share personal information so that it can be redistributed online.
The FBI said this smishing scam messages customers about an "outstanding toll amount," and there have been more than 2,000 reports across three states.
So how do you react if you receive a smishing text message?
TxDOT says it's important never to open a link, and that instead, you can contact TxTag's customer service number at 1-888-468-9824, or visit their website here.
You can also form an official complaint with the FBI Crime Complaint Center here.
