‘Have your guard up’: BBB warns of E-Z Pass text scam
Residents in New York State are facing a rising threat from deceitful text messages that appear to originate from the E-Z Pass system, aiming to swindle recipients by claiming unpaid tolls.
These scams attempt to extract personal information or financial payments by masquerading as official representatives of the Thruway Authority. It’s crucial for individuals to exercise caution and protect themselves against such fraudulent communications.
Here are key steps to safeguard against these scams:
- Avoid responding to messages from unfamiliar numbers. Remain vigilant when receiving messages from unknown sources asking for personal data or payments.
- Do not click on any links within these messages or attempt to visit any websites mentioned.
- Use your phone’s “report junk” feature to delete and report any suspicious message.
- Block the sender’s phone number or email address.
- Stay alert and do not interact with any message if you question its legitimacy.
Judy Brady, a resident of West Seneca, expressed her deep concern about these scams affecting her local community. “It makes me angry, and I don’t know what to do about it,” she voiced. After receiving a bogus text about an unpaid toll, she took swift action to alert her neighbors by posting on social media. Her post garnered numerous responses from others who had encountered similar scams, revealing a broader community issue.
A deeper look into the matter comes from insights shared by the Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York. Reports of these E-Z Pass text scams have been on the rise since their first appearance last year and show no signs of abating. The financial impact on victims can be significant, with one Central New York individual reportedly losing over $1,000 to the scam.
Kat Schmieder, Communications Director for the Better Business Bureau, emphasized the importance of public awareness in combating this fraudulent activity. “It’s definitely a problem and something we want people to be aware of,” Schmieder pointed out.
To combat these scams effectively, she advised verifying any suspicious message’s authenticity by reaching out directly to E-Z Pass through their official contact numbers: 1-800-333-8655 for E-Z Pass or 1-844-826-8400 for Tolls by Mail. Schmieder also stressed the importance of maintaining a vigilant mindset. “Always have your guard up, and remember, if something looks suspicious, you shouldn’t engage with it,” she warned.
For those looking for further resources or to report scams, the Better Business Bureau offers a Scam Tracker on their website, providing valuable tools for the public to stay informed and protected.
This surge in fraudulent activity reminds everyone to proceed with caution when dealing with unsolicited communications, putting their safety at the forefront in this digital age.
