Scam targeting E-ZPass users with fake text messages

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Niagara County Clerk has issued a warning about a scam targeting E-ZPass users with fake text messages.

According to the employee, the scam preys on customers of toll agencies across the country and attempts to persuade users to enter personal and/or financial information on a fake website. The text message is sent in an attempt to collect tolls on behalf of “NY Toll Services” or “E-ZPass Toll Services”, and you are asked to click on a link to pay the outstanding toll balance to avoid charges late.

The employee stated that the toll account information provided in the texts is neither valid nor accurate and that real communications from E-ZPass New York will only refer customers to the following official websites: EZPassNY.com and TollsByMailNY .com.

“It’s like so many other scams where the goal is to try to acquire as much personal information as possible. The text message sent looks official and has fooled many people. It is always important to know that legitimate government agencies will never ask for a customer’s date of birth, social security number, or other personally identifiable information in an unsolicited text message. Always remember, if you are unsure about a text message or email you receive, you should call the agency directly.

– Niagara County Clerk Joseph A. Jastrzemski