NHDOT warns of E-ZPass smishing text scam
Feb. 21—The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) is warning drivers of a smishing scam targeting Granite State residents through text messages.
The text messages ask recipients to click on a link to settle outstanding toll amounts. Transportation officials said New Hampshire E-ZPass will never send text messages requesting payment for tolls with late fees.
The texts appear to be sent by "EZ- Pass" and include language detailing "urgent requests" involving an individual's account that will result in "excessive fees" or "potential legal action" if the alleged outstanding balance is not paid.
"Do not click on the link, it is not a legitimate website," state DOT said in a statement. "Similar scams have been reported by toll agencies across the country over the past several months."
Customers who receive an unsolicited text, email, or similar message suggesting it is from the NH Turnpike or another toll agency should not click on the link.
E-ZPass account holders can use approved safe methods to check their accounts, such as the official NH Turnpike E-ZPass website or the NH E-ZPass app available from the Apple App Store, or Google Play store, officials said.
Anyone who receives a fraudulent text can file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov, a site dedicated to sharing information on Internet crimes across law enforcement agencies.
Recipients can also forward the suspicious message to 7726 (SPAM) to alert their mobile provider.
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