KTA alerts customers to SMS scam

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) is alerting customers of a text message scam, known as smishing, Tuesday afternoon.

The scam uses the name DriveKS, Kansas’ new toll payment system, with a text message that includes a photo with the DriveKS logo and states that outstanding balances must be paid to avoid additional fees.

What KTA wants customers to know:

Do not click on links or use the URL provided in unsolicited text messages.
KTA does not send unsolicited SMS messages. All SMS messages require the customer to register through their DriveKS account or to receive alerts in the event of a road incident.
KTA does not charge any fees such as those mentioned in text messages.
KTA does not send SMS for toll payment.

The KTA says the targeted phone numbers appear to be randomly selected and are not uniquely associated with a toll account or use of toll roads.

Other types of text message scams have been reported by toll agencies across the country since early April, prompting the FBI to issue a public service announcement about the fraudulent text message campaign.

KTA suggests that customers who receive an unsolicited text message suggesting it is from KTA or another toll agency should not click on the link.

Customers are encouraged to file a complaint with the FBI’s Cybercrime Complaint Center, which is dedicated to sharing information about cybercrimes among law enforcement agencies.