Learn about the rising E-ZPass and toll payment scams targeting U.S. drivers in 2025. Discover how scammers use SMS phishing to steal personal information and how to stay safe with tips from the New York State Thruway Authority.
The Surge of Toll Payment Scams in 2025
In March 2025, the New York State Thruway Authority issued a critical scam alert warning drivers about a surge in SMS text message and email scams targeting E-ZPass and toll payment systems. These fraudulent schemes are part of a broader wave of cybercrime affecting toll road users across the United States, with scammers using sophisticated methods to steal credit card details and personal information. If you’re an E-ZPass user or rely on toll services like Tolls By Mail, this blog post will help you understand the threat, recognize fake messages, and protect yourself from becoming a victim.
What Are E-ZPass and Toll Payment Scams?
E-ZPass and toll payment scams, often referred to as “smishing” (SMS phishing), involve fraudulent text messages or emails claiming you owe unpaid tolls or have an outstanding E-ZPass bill. These scams trick victims into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, or birthdays.
According to the New York State Thruway Authority’s post on X (Twitter) on March 14, 2025, these scams have seen an “uptick” in activity, with fake texts coming from international phone numbers and unofficial websites. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has reported over 2,000 complaints related to toll payment scams, as noted in web reports from CBS News and NBC News.
How Scammers Operate: The Chinese Cybercrime Syndicate
Recent investigations, as detailed by NBC News on March 14, 2025, reveal that an elaborate online syndicate of Chinese-speaking scammers is behind many of these toll payment scams. These cybercriminals sell ready-made “phish kits” on Telegram, enabling others to easily launch SMS phishing campaigns. The kits allow scammers to send fake toll payment alerts, such as “Final notice: Your unpaid toll balance is due. Pay now to avoid late fees,” followed by a link to a fraudulent website designed to steal your data.
How to Spot a Fake E-ZPass or Toll Payment Text
The New York State Thruway Authority emphasizes that legitimate E-ZPass and Tolls By Mail communications will never request sensitive personal information via text or email. Here’s how to identify a scam:
- Sender Number: Real E-ZPass texts come from the number 39769 and begin with “EZPNY.” Fake texts often originate from international numbers or unfamiliar source.
- Request for Sensitive Information: Scammers may ask you to reply “Y” to receive a link or provide credit card details, birthdays, or Social Security numbers—something official toll authorities will never do.
- Unofficial Websites: Fake texts link to unofficial websites (e.g., “ezpass-payment[.]com”), while legitimate sites use domains like EZPassNY.com or TollsByMailNY.com.
- Urgent Language: Scams often use urgent phrases like “Final notice” or “Pay now to avoid late fees” to pressure you into acting quickly.
As reported by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, TxTag, and other state toll authorities, these scams are widespread, affecting drivers nationwide.
Real-Life Examples: What the Scams Look Like
The New York State Thruway Authority’s X post included images of fake SMS messages marked with “SCAM ALERT” and “FAKE” stamps. For example:
A fraudulent text might read: “Your vehicle has an unpaid toll invoice. Please make an unpaid toll payment to avoid any fines or fees by [link].”
The sender isn’t in your contacts, and replying “Y” activates a phishing link leading to a fake website.
In contrast, a legitimate E-ZPass text would come from 39769, start with “EZPNY,” and direct you to official websites like EZPassNY.com or TollsByMailNY.com for assistance.
How to Protect Yourself from Toll Payment Scams
Don’t let scammers take advantage of your E-ZPass or toll payments. Follow these tips to stay safe:
- Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious text or email, don’t click any links or reply. Instead, contact E-ZPass directly at 1-800-333-8655 or Tolls By Mail at 1-844-826-8400. You can also email ezpassny@thruway.ny.gov for assistance.
- Check Official Websites: Only use EZPassNY.com and TollsByMailNY.com for toll-related inquiries. Avoid unofficial or suspicious domains.
- Report Scams: If you receive a fraudulent SMS, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
- Delete Suspicious Messages: If a text seems urgent or comes from an unknown number, delete it immediately without responding.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from the New York State Thruway Authority (@NYSThruway on X) and other toll authorities for the latest scam alerts.
The Bigger Picture: A Nationwide Scam Epidemic
This isn’t just a New York problem. As reported by CBS News and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), toll payment scams are affecting drivers coast to coast, from Massachusetts (EZDriveMA) to Georgia (Peach Pass) and beyond. The FTC warns that scammers are using these schemes to demand immediate payments, often via fake websites that harvest credit card information.
Cybersecurity researchers, as noted in a Censys report from March 7, 2025, have tracked these phishing campaigns, finding that scammers create convincing fake domains to exploit unsuspecting drivers. The rise of these scams on platforms like Telegram highlights the need for vigilance in 2025.
Stay Vigilant Against E-ZPass and Toll Scams
The surge in E-ZPass and toll payment scams in 2025 is a reminder to stay cautious when receiving unexpected texts or emails about unpaid tolls. By recognizing the signs of a scam, verifying communications through official channels, and reporting suspicious activity, you can protect yourself from financial loss and identity theft.
.jpeg "E-ZPass scam alert 2025")
For more information, visit the New York State Thruway Authority’s official website or follow their updates on X. If you’ve been targeted by a toll payment scam, don’t hesitate to report it to the IC3 and seek help from your state’s toll authority.Call to Action: Have you received a suspicious toll payment text? Share your experience in the comments below, and let’s raise awareness to keep our roads—and wallets—safe!
