Unpaid toll text scam: is that E-ZPass message real?
Editorially reviewed · Last updated September 8, 2026
Yes — this is a scam. Toll agencies don't text you a link to pay a small balance or threaten your license over a few dollars.
Exhibit · Text message
Other versions you might get: The same scam shows up as FasTrak, TxTag, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, SunPass, or just “Toll Services,” sometimes citing a license plate or a “final notice” before your account goes to collections.
Reported versions of this message
Each source below documented a text. Web addresses are defanged, and identifying values may be redacted; the remaining wording follows the source. Similar wording is a reason to check independently, not proof that two messages came from the same sender.
“(State Toll Service Name): We've noticed an outstanding toll amount of $12.51 on your record. To avoid a late fee of $50.00, visit hxxps://myturnpiketollservices[.]com to settle your balance.”
Documented by FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) · April 2024 “We have noticed an unpaid toll invoice for your vehicle. To avoid an extra charge of $150.00, please settle your balance of $5.89 as soon as possible.”
Documented by CBS6 Albany (WRGB) · July 2024
What to do right now
- Don't tap the link or enter any card details. Don't reply — even “STOP” confirms your number is real and live.
- Check the real way. Open your toll account at the agency's official .gov or known site (type it yourself), or call the number on the back of your transponder or a past statement.
- If you already entered your card or paid: call your bank, freeze or replace the card, dispute the charge, and watch for follow-up “refund” or “verify” texts — those are round two of the same scam.
- Report it. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), then file at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Delete the message.
Reduce the risk of another scam
Do not use the message’s link to check the claim. Open the real service yourself. If you paid or shared account details, start with what to do after a scam. Blocking and reporting can reduce unwanted contact, but they cannot stop every attempt or tell you how the sender found you.
● Public service · free steps first
Take the free protection steps first
A suspicious message does not tell us how someone found your details. If you shared personal information, start with the official recovery guidance. You can also freeze your credit for free.
- Freeze your credit — free at all three bureausRestricts access to your credit report for new credit applications. It does not protect existing accounts from misuse.
- Report it and get a recovery plan at IdentityTheft.govThe FTC walks you through exactly what to do next, for free.
Decide what protection you need
Start with the free controls above. Compare what a paid service would add only after deciding which problem remains.
No purchase needed. How we use evidence.
Frequently asked
Why am I getting unpaid toll texts when I don't even drive toll roads?
I paid the “toll” through the link — what should I do now?
How do I check whether I actually owe a toll?
I clicked the toll link and entered my name, address, or driver's license number — but no card. Am I still at risk?
Related scams
E-ZPass text scam: is that unpaid-toll message real?
Got a text from “E-ZPass” about an unpaid toll, a late fee, or a suspended account? E-ZPass doesn't text payment links. Here's the verdict and what to do.
SunPass text scam: is that unpaid-toll message real?
Got a text from “SunPass” about an unpaid toll balance and a link to pay? SunPass doesn't text payment links. Here's the verdict and exactly what to do.
DMV scam text: that overdue-ticket message is fake
Got a text about an overdue traffic ticket, a DMV final notice, or a license suspension with a link to pay? Here's the verdict and exactly what to do.
USPS text scam: is that delivery text real?
Got a USPS text about a held package, an address problem, or a redelivery fee? Here's the verdict and exactly what to do.
FedEx text scam: is that delivery text real?
Got a text about a FedEx package on hold, a missed delivery, or a fee to pay? Here's the verdict and exactly what to do.
FasTrak text scam: is that unpaid-toll message real?
Got a text from FasTrak about an unpaid toll, a late fee, or a hold on your registration? FasTrak doesn't text payment links. Here's what to do.
Parking ticket scam: is that notice real?
A text or QR code says you owe a parking fine and must pay now? Here's the verdict and the safe way to check.
Sources
- 01Smishing scam involving road toll collection services— FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
- 02Got a text about unpaid tolls? It's probably a scam— Federal Trade Commission
- 03What To Know About Identity Theft— Federal Trade Commission
- 04What To Do if You Were Scammed— consumer.ftc.gov
- 05How To Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages— consumer.ftc.gov
Pass it on
Help protect someone else
If this could have fooled you, it can fool someone you know — a parent, a friend, the family group chat. It's safe to forward, and stands on its own as a record for a bank or the police.