RCTC - Riverside County Transportation Commission
07/17/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 07/17/2024 10:07
Attention Riverside County Toll Lane Users
The Point: A nationwide consumer alert advises the public to be wary of toll texts
Toll customers across the country have become the next targets of a new type of text message scam. Since spring, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, attorneys general, and countless other government agencies have sent out alerts to the public about a new type of scam related to toll charges.
Using the FasTrak® toll system in California is a straightforward process. Each time you use Express Lanes, you pay a toll.
To prey on FasTrak customers, scammers are pretending to be one of many California FasTrak agencies (e.g. 91 Express Lanes, Bay Area Tolling Agency) informing the individual of unpaid toll charges through a text message. The message advises the individual to click on a link embedded in the text message to pay the outstanding balance.
When the individual clicks on the link, they are redirected to a fraudulent website featuring the FasTrak logo and payment button. At that point, users are asked to enter personal information such as a driver's license number, address, name, and date of birth. After entering their personal information, users are then prompted to provide payment information such as a credit card number or bank account. The purpose of the scam is to steal your money and your identity.
The text message scam will include a fraudulent link
RCTC wants you to inform you, our customers, to be vigilant and know the signs to spot fake texts. This vigilance will empower you to avoid falling victim to these scams.
Slow down, and don't click on links that look suspicious. Many of the webpages appear authentic, so it's important to check the information on the website closely before providing any personal information.
Check with the tolling agency. If you are unsure if a text message is from a reputable source, you can always call the customer service center to check the validity of the text message or email.
Report unwanted text messages using the "report junk" feature on your phone.
If you receive a suspicious text message, delete it immediately. Do not engage with the sender or click on any links.
Please share this information so that others are aware of these scam attempts. If you are ever in doubt, Riverside County toll customers can call Riverside Express customer service center at (855) 951-1500 or the 91 Express Lanes customer service center at (800) 600-9191.