(Credit: LevittownNow)
Pennsylvanians are being warned to be on alert for a surge of scam text messages falsely claiming to be from PennDOT or the state’s Driver’s License Centers.
The so-called “smishing” attempts aim to trick recipients into clicking malicious links and handing over personal financial information.
PennDOT officials said in a Facebook post that they do not send text messages regarding violations or fines.
The fraudulent messages often attempt to create a sense of urgency and urge people to settle purported outstanding toll amounts or address fictitious violations.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) issued a similar warning last year about a smishing scam targeting drivers with messages that appear to be from the PA Turnpike or other toll agencies.
The commission advises against clicking on any unsolicited links in the messages.
To verify account information or settle legitimate tolls, E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers should use official and secure methods.
Those who receive suspicious text messages are encouraged to report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and/or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
