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Is This E-ZPass Toll Text a Scam?

Received a text about an unpaid E-ZPass toll? It's a phishing scam targeting millions. Here's how to verify and protect yourself.

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What the scam looks like

Examples of common scam message patterns. These are composites based on real reported scams, not quotes from specific individuals.

SMS message — example of a common scam pattern

“E-ZPass: You have an unpaid toll of $4.15. Pay within 24 hours to avoid a $50 late fee. Pay now: ezpass-payment.com/settle?acct=28471”

Alternate version — example of a common scam pattern

“Toll Services Alert: Your vehicle has an outstanding toll balance of $6.99. Failure to pay may result in registration suspension. Resolve at: mytollpay.top/balance”

Why this is suspicious

  • E-ZPass and toll agencies do not send payment demands via text message
  • The URL is not your state's official toll website
  • Threatens penalties (late fees, registration suspension) to create urgency
  • The same message is sent to millions of people across all states — even states without E-ZPass
  • Toll amounts are always small ($3-$12) to seem believable and not worth questioning
  • These phishing domains are registered days ago and rotate constantly
  • Real toll violations come by mail to the registered vehicle owner

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What to do

  1. Do not click the link or enter any payment information
  2. If you have E-ZPass, log in directly at your state's official toll website to check your account
  3. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM)
  4. Report the scam to the FBI's IC3 at ic3.gov
  5. If you entered payment info, contact your bank immediately to freeze your card
  6. Check your toll account directly — real unpaid tolls are mailed to you

Frequently asked questions

Does E-ZPass send text messages about unpaid tolls?+
No. E-ZPass and state toll agencies do not send unsolicited text messages demanding payment. Unpaid toll notices are sent by mail to the registered vehicle owner. Any text claiming you owe a toll payment is a phishing scam.
Why did I get an E-ZPass text if I don't even have E-ZPass?+
These texts are sent in bulk to millions of random phone numbers. The scammers don't know if you have E-ZPass — they're betting that enough recipients will have it (or worry they might) and click the link. People in states without E-ZPass receive them too.
What happens if I pay through the fake toll link?+
The phishing site captures your credit card number, name, and billing address. Scammers then use this information for unauthorized charges, identity theft, or sell your data on the dark web. Contact your bank immediately if you entered payment details.
How do I check if I actually owe a toll?+
Visit your state's official toll agency website directly (e.g., e-zpassny.com, sunpass.com, txtag.org). Log into your account to check your balance. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your E-ZPass transponder.

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