A smishing scam is a fake text that tricks you into downloading malware, sharing private information or sending money to cybercriminals, according to the FBI.
Since early March, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center got over 2,000 complaints about smishing texts related to road toll charges from at least three states, the agency said. The scam might be moving from state-to-state.
The FBI is warning iPhone and Android phone users about these smishing texts.
“The texts claim the recipient owes money for unpaid tolls and contain almost identical language,” the FBI said. “The ‘outstanding toll amount’ is similar among the complaints reported to the [Internet Crime Complaint Center].”
If you do get one of these smishing texts, the FBI suggests that you file a complaint with them. People can send their complaint here.
People should also check their account using the toll service’s real website and call the toll service’s phone number, the FBI suggested.
People should also delete any smishing texts they get, the FBI suggested. If they clicked on any links sent to them or gave away their information, they should take steps to secure their personal information and financial accounts.
“Dispute any unfamiliar charges,” the FBI said.
© 2025 Advance Local Media LLC. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
