Texas Warns of Rising Toll Fee Scams Targeting Vehicle Owners

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is issuing urgent warnings to drivers about an increase in smishing scams that falsely claim to be from TxTag, the state’s toll management system. Victims are receiving text messages urging them to settle alleged unpaid toll fees to avoid hefty fines and the suspension of their vehicle registration.

These fraudulent messages contain links that escalate the risk of identity theft, enticing recipients to make immediate payments. TxDOT officials emphasize that such communications are not legitimate. “TxTag does not send emails or SMS messages regarding unpaid balances,” a TxDOT spokesperson stated. “We encourage customers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious communication.”

The scams have surged recently, prompting TxDOT and TxTag to work actively to dismantle the fraudulent websites associated with these deceptive texts. Legitimate notifications from TxTag will only originate from the number “22498,” ensuring customer security is prioritized.

According to TxDOT, email and text notifications are only sent to customers who have opted in through their account settings. If customers are uncertain about their notification preferences, they are urged to log into their TxTag account or contact customer service at 1-888-468-9824 for verification.

Those who suspect they may have encountered a scam are encouraged to reach out to TxTag directly. TxDOT advises reporting any fraudulent texts to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center to help combat the ongoing issue.

In a significant transition, TxTag accounts, previously managed by TxDOT, are now under the jurisdiction of the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) as of Dec. 2, 2024. An agreement facilitating this change was approved on Nov. 9, 2024. Reports indicate over a million TxTag customers have not yet migrated to the new system, with approximately $57 million in unpaid balances still outstanding.

Customers needing assistance related to toll transactions dating from Nov. 9 onward can reach HCTRA Customer Service at 281-875-EASY (3279). Refunds are being issued to those with positive balances prior to the transition to HCTRA, ensuring that existing funds are properly returned to owners.