If you recently received a text message from an unknown number warning you about an unpaid SunPass fee, authorities want you to know it could be a scam.
“Smishing” or SMS phishing is when scammers attempt to obtain personal information through text messages. According to the Federal Trade Commission, the text may include not only a link but also possibly the amount of money owed.
Clicking the link will take you to a page where you enter your bank account or credit card information.
“SunPass would like to remind customers to be wary of text messages or other communications requesting immediate payment of unpaid toll balances,” the Florida Department of Transportation, which operates the electronic toll collection system, said in an advisory on its website. “There is,” he said. “These messages often pressure customers to pay quickly to avoid late fees and also include links to fake websites that collect personal information.”
If you receive either message, the Department of Transportation tells you not to click on the link. Instead, check your balance by logging into your account at sunpass.com. SunPass will only contact you through customerservice@sunpass.com, noreply@sunpass.com, or text message (786727).
To spot smishing scams, keep the following in mind:
unknown or hidden number. Scammers may hide their identity, but they may also spoof local numbers to appear genuine. False claims regarding payment information issues. Fake invoices with contact information. Requests for personal information such as your name, address, social security number, and credit card details. Warning messages that cause a feeling of panic. “What these scams have in common is that they often require immediate payment,” the Department of Transportation advisory states. “By forcing you to act quickly, you are less likely to question your request. Don’t rush.”
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If you receive a message that you suspect is smishing, please do the following:
Don’t click on links or call numbers you don’t recognize. Don’t respond to the message if it asks you to “stop texting” to end the message. Report the message to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov). You can also use your phone’s “Report Spam” feature or forward the message to 7726 (spam). Remove all suspicious text. Keep your phone’s operating system and security apps updated. To reduce scam messages and phone calls, the Federal Trade Commission recommends using filters and call blocking apps. Many email providers have spam filters enabled by default, but if you receive unwanted messages in your inbox, mark them as spam or junk.
You can also stop receiving unnecessary emails. The FTC says doing so reduces the risk of clicking on links that could lead to phishing attacks.
