Attention, New Yorkers—there’s a new scam targeting your phones, and it’s not an exclusive sample sale invite. Fraudsters are sending fake E-ZPass text messages, trying to steal your personal information. In today’s digital world, where convenience can lead to complacency, Governor Kathy Hochul warns residents to stay vigilant. These scammers impersonate E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail, sending SMS alerts about supposed unpaid tolls in an attempt to phish for sensitive details.
These scam texts, often sent from international numbers, follow a common tactic: they prompt recipients to reply “Y” for a link that directs them to a fake website disguised with E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail branding, according to the Governor's Press Office. However, neither entity will ever contact users via text or email to request personal details such as credit card information, Social Security numbers, or birthdates. “Public safety is my top priority, which is why I’m urging New Yorkers to stay alert against scammers sending fake E-ZPass messages in an attempt to collect money for bogus unpaid tolls,” Governor Hochul stated. “Consumers should be aware that E-ZPass and Tolls by Mail will never ask for sensitive information via text or email.”
If you’re unsure about an unfamiliar message in your SMS inbox, resist the urge to click first and ask questions later. Instead, call E-ZPass directly at 1-800-333-8655 or Tolls by Mail at 1-844-826-8400. For additional assistance, New York’s Department of State offers a Division of Consumer Protection Helpline at 1-800-697-1220 to help distinguish legitimate messages from scams.
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley reminded the Governor's Press Office, "Scammers are getting smarter, and by using new technologies and tactics their messages may look legitimate." Now, it's not just about knowing the warning signs but also about being proactive with any suspicious messages—don't just shrug them off; reporting them can help protect not just you but others who might fall prey down the line. If there are any doubts about a message's legitimacy, reach out to E-ZPass or Tolls By Mail through official channels before giving a scam artist the click they're fishing for.
Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare echoed these sentiments, stating to the Governor's Press Office, "Our focus is on protecting our customers from scams like these and ensuring that they use the correct payment methods." As these scams become more frequent, "we strongly encourage everyone to stay vigilant and informed to minimize risks and protect personal information." When in doubt, "contact E-ZPass or Tolls By Mail via the official channels listed here before clicking any link sent via text message."
Skip those suspicious links and keep your personal information away from cyber scammers. Simple actions—like ignoring texts from unknown numbers and deleting sketchy messages—can save you a world of trouble down the line. If you ever need assistance, the New York State Division of Consumer Protection is ready to help with services like voluntary mediation and a dedicated helpline. Stay informed, stay cautious, and stay safe.
