New Yorkers warned to keep an eye out for latest E-Z Pass scam

New York State officials are warning residents to beware of the latest E-Z Pass scam that has been going around.

According to the Governor’s Office, this scam has been observed via text message. These fake texts are often sent from an international number and request the consumer to reply with "Y" to receive a link and contain an unofficial website.

Consumers should be aware that E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail will never send a text or email requesting sensitive personal information such as credit card, birthday, Social Security number or other personally identifiable information.

If you are unsure about a message you received, call E-ZPass directly at 1-800-333-8655 or Tolls by Mail at 1-844-826-8400.

Tips to follow if you or someone you know receives a fraudulent SMS text message:

1. Don’t reply to text messages from unknown numbers. It could lead to a scam. Be wary of unsolicited messages from unknown senders that request personal information or payments and don’t respond to the message.
2. Don’t click on any links in the message or attempt to access a website through the text.
3. Delete and report the message using your phone’s “report junk” option. Forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM) and unwanted emails to your email provider. Use the reporting features that are built into devices or email platforms. Reporting suspicious phishing messages is one of the most efficient methods for protecting you as it helps identify new or trending phishing attacks.
4. Block the sender’s email address or phone number.
5. Remember, it’s always better to be cautious. If you’re unsure of the legitimacy of a message, avoid engaging with the sender.

Clicking a link from a fraudulent text message puts your personal information and money at risk. Scammers may be able to:

1. Install ransomware or other programs in your device that can spy on your online activity or hold your device hostage by encrypting your data and demanding payment to unscramble it.
2. Gain access to your personal or sensitive information — including passwords, credit card numbers, banking PINs, etc. This information can be used to take out loans or credit cards in your name or perform other fraudulent financial transactions.

Images via the New York State Thruway Authority.