WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Turnpike Authority and FBI are warning toll road users about a text messaging scam targeting drivers in multiple states.
According to a public announcement from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), scammers are sending fraudulent text messages claiming to be from a tolling agency, directing recipients to pay an outstanding toll balance.
However, the West Virginia Turnpike Authority does not send payment requests or account information inquiries via text.
Anyone who receives a suspicious message is encouraged to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
When filing a complaint, include the phone number the text originated from and any website mentioned in the message.
To protect yourself from fraud, the Turnpike Authority advises:
- Checking your account only through the official toll service website.
- Contacting the toll service’s customer service directly.
- Deleting any suspicious text messages.
- If you clicked a link or shared personal information, take steps to secure your financial accounts and dispute any unauthorized charges.
West Virginia toll account holders can verify their accounts at ezpasswv.com or call customer service at 1-800-206-6222.