Officials in Mississippi are warning the public to beware of a nationwide text messaging scam.
Northern District Public Service Commissioner Chris Brown reports that scammers are sending out text messages accusing individuals of having unpaid toll dues and demanding immediate payment. Mississippi, of course, does not have any toll roads, but for those who have traveled to a nearby state with toll roads, it is important to proceed with caution when receiving a notification of an unpaid fee.
“You get a text out of the blue that says you have unpaid tolls and need to pay immediately. The scammy text might show a dollar amount for how much you supposedly owe and include a link that takes you to a page to enter your bank or credit card info — but it’s a phishing scam,” a statement from the Federal Trade Commission reads.
“Not only is the scammer trying to steal your money, but if you click the link, they could get your personal info (like your driver’s license number) — and even steal your identity.”
The public is required to always verify text messages before sending out any sensitive personal or payment information.
