Once again, scammers are hard at work trying to bilk residents out of cash via phony baloney texts. First, it was the fake “overdue parking ticket” scam via the “City of Boston,” now it’s EZDRIVEMA texts requesting payments for unpaid tolls. Don’t fall for it.
New vocabulary word alert: According to the FCC, this type of scamming is called “smishing” – a blending of SMS (short message service” and phishing. How clever. Try using it in a sentence today.
MassDOT recently issued an alert which you can read below.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is warning EZDriveMA customers of a text message-based scam, also known as smishing. The scammers are claiming to represent the tolling agency and requesting payment for unpaid tolls.
The targeted phone numbers seem to be chosen at random and are not uniquely associated with an account or usage of toll roads. Customers who receive an unsolicited text, email, or similar message suggesting it is from EZDriveMA or another toll agency should not click on the link.
MassDOT is underscoring that:
- EZDriveMA will never request payment by text.
- All links associated with EZDriveMA will include www.EZDriveMA.com
The EZDrive smishing scam is part of a series of smishing scams that the FBI is aware of. The FBI recommends individuals that receive the fraudulent messages do the following:
- File a complaint with the IC3, www.ic3.gov, be sure to include:
- The phone number from where the text originated.
- The website listed within the text.
- Check your account using the toll service’s legitimate website.
- Contact the toll service’s customer service phone number at (877) 627-7745.
- Delete any smishing texts received.
- If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.
MassDOT encourages all customers to stay alert to these types of scams and to contact us at www.EZDriveMA.com with any questions about EZDriveMA notifications.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
I’ve taken a screenshot of a text asking for money
EzDriveMA (massDOT) : Your recent journey on the Massachusetts E-ZPass toll roads has resulted in a charge of $11.50. Settle your balance promptly to prevent any additional late fees.
To pay visit following link:
https://ezdrive-ma.us
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