Massachusetts E-ZPass Customers Targeted in Toll Payment Scam

BOSTON, Mass. — Massachusetts E-ZPass customers are the latest targets of a widespread smishing scam that demands payment for fake unpaid toll balances. The fraudulent texts, which have already affected drivers in New Hampshire and Rhode Island, warn recipients of “excessive late fees” if they fail to pay immediately.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) confirmed that the scam messages are not linked to actual toll accounts or road usage. “EZDriveMA will never request payment by text,” the agency stated, emphasizing that legitimate links will always include the official .gov domain.

Scammers are using random phone numbers to send messages claiming unpaid balances, with some texts specifying a $6.99 toll fee. The FBI has received over 2,000 complaints about similar fraudulent texts across at least three states, according to an April report.

In November, the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority warned customers about a similar scam referencing an unpaid bill from a Kansas road. The New Hampshire Department of Transportation also issued a statement clarifying that they do not send payment requests via text.

“Customers receiving text messages claiming to be from ‘E-ZPass Toll Services’ should delete them immediately and avoid clicking any embedded links,” E-ZPass said in a statement. MassDOT advises customers to verify their account status through official websites or apps and to report suspicious texts to their phone carrier by forwarding the message to 7726 (SPAM).

If a link has already been clicked, MassDOT recommends securing personal and financial information and disputing any unauthorized charges through their bank. The FBI encourages victims to file complaints through its Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate serving western Massachusetts, has been covering the scam and urging viewers to remain vigilant. The station advises customers to rely on official channels for toll payments and account inquiries.