Are you receiving text messages claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls? If so, you might be the target of a sophisticated and rapidly escalating scam, potentially impacting millions of Americans who utilize express lanes and toll roads daily, making it a leading consumer fraud of 2025.

The digital landscape has become a hunting ground for cybercriminals, and the transportation sector is unfortunately no exception. Toll road text scams are on the rise, preying on drivers across the United States. These scams are meticulously crafted to create a sense of urgency and fear, coercing recipients into divulging personal information or making fraudulent payments. The modus operandi is simple yet effective: unsolicited text messages are sent, falsely claiming outstanding toll debts. These texts often contain links that, when clicked, lead to phishing websites designed to steal sensitive data, including banking details and Social Security numbers. The consequences can be devastating, ranging from financial loss to identity theft. Law enforcement agencies and transportation departments across the country are actively issuing warnings, urging vigilance and caution among drivers.

Express Lane Text Scam

Given the nature of the information, a table format is not suitable for presenting information about a text scam. Instead, key details and information will be presented below.

What the scam is: Fraudulent text messages claiming unpaid tolls.
Target: Drivers, particularly those using express lanes and toll roads.
Objective: To steal personal and financial information.
How it works: Scammers send texts with fake claims of unpaid tolls, often with links to fake payment sites.
Where it's happening: Across the United States, including Colorado, as well as other states with toll roads.
Official warnings: Issued by the FBI, Department of Transportation, and other law enforcement agencies.
How to avoid it: Do not click links in unsolicited texts; verify toll information through official channels.
How to report: Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or local law enforcement.

As an illustration of the scam's impact, consider the case of Ms. Bales, who recently fell victim to the scheme.

The deceptive nature of these scams is further compounded by their targeted approach. Criminals often exploit the inherent trust people place in official communications. These messages often mimic legitimate notifications from toll authorities, making it difficult for unsuspecting drivers to differentiate between genuine and fraudulent communications. Furthermore, the scammers are constantly refining their tactics. They are adept at using sophisticated language, replicating official logos and branding, and creating a sense of urgency to manipulate recipients into acting quickly without thinking. This sense of urgency is a critical component of the scam; it discourages people from pausing to verify the legitimacy of the message.

Colorado, a state with an extensive network of express lanes, has become a hotspot for these scams. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has been particularly proactive in warning motorists about the fraudulent text messages. In a Facebook post dated January 29th, CDOT unequivocally stated that "all Colorado express lane and express toll fees will be billed and paid directly through your ExpressToll account and never over a text message." They emphasized that they would never request toll payments through text. Other states with express lanes, like those in the Washington D.C. area, are also experiencing these scams, with similar warnings from transportation authorities.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is actively investigating these scams, underscoring the severity of the problem and the potential for large-scale financial losses. The FBI has received over 2,000 complaints related to these toll collector imposter scams, highlighting the breadth of their impact. These scams are not confined to a specific geographic area or a particular demographic. They target anyone who uses express lanes or toll roads, making it imperative for all drivers to be vigilant and informed. The FBI's involvement reflects a concerted effort to identify, apprehend, and prosecute the criminals behind these schemes.

The modus operandi typically involves a text message claiming an outstanding balance for using an express lane or toll road. These messages include a link that directs the recipient to a fraudulent website. The website is designed to mimic the look and feel of a legitimate payment portal, complete with official logos and branding. Once on the site, victims are prompted to enter their personal and financial information, including credit card numbers, bank account details, and sometimes even their Social Security numbers. This information is then used by the scammers to steal money, open fraudulent accounts, or commit identity theft.

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has been very clear in its messaging. They reiterated that they will never send toll payment requests from a text message. All legitimate toll payments are handled through the ExpressToll account or via mail. Drivers are strongly urged to avoid clicking any links or responding to any text messages that appear suspicious. If there is any doubt about the validity of a message, drivers should contact the official toll authority directly through their website or phone number.

Scammers are adapting their approach. Instead of relying solely on text messages, some are turning to email. Drivers might receive emails claiming outstanding balances for utilizing express lanes, prompting them to click on links to pay. Like the text message scams, these emails are designed to look legitimate. They often contain official-looking logos and use language that creates a sense of urgency. The ultimate goal remains the same: to steal personal and financial information. Therefore, similar precautions apply: never click on links or provide personal information in response to unsolicited emails.

Express lanes themselves are designed to enhance traffic flow, offering a premium option for drivers willing to pay a toll. They increase roadway capacity by adding lanes adjacent to the free general-purpose lanes. Motorists can choose to ride the bus, carpool, or pay a toll to use these lanes, providing an alternative to free general-purpose lanes. Understanding how these lanes work is essential for motorists. Knowing how they function can help in identifying fraudulent communications. If you are not a user of express lanes, any text messages requesting a toll payment should immediately raise a red flag.

The Colorado Transportation Investment Office (CTIO), an independent organization within CDOT responsible for express lanes, is clear that it does not use text messaging to collect payments or personal information. This is a critical piece of information for drivers in Colorado. Any text message claiming to be from CTIO and requesting payment should be considered fraudulent. The CTIO's official website and customer service channels are the only authorized methods for managing accounts and payments. Checking and confirming this is critical.

In Los Angeles, where the Interstate 10 freeway features Fastrak express lanes, similar scams are likely. Fastrak is a toll system that requires users to have an account and a transponder, which is likely being exploited as a similar method. Always be cautious of unsolicited messages claiming toll debts, and always verify them through official channels.

The sophistication of these scams poses a significant challenge to law enforcement and transportation authorities. The criminals behind them are often based overseas, making it difficult to track them down and bring them to justice. They are constantly changing their tactics, making it crucial for authorities to remain one step ahead. This is why public awareness campaigns are so important. By educating the public about these scams, authorities can empower drivers to protect themselves and avoid falling victim.

One typical example of a fraudulent text message reads: "Pay your Fastrak lane tolls by February 13, 2025." This specific message, while it may refer to an actual toll system, is a clear warning sign. Always verify these messages via the official Fastrak website and not via any link contained in such a message.

The key to protecting yourself from these scams is to be proactive and vigilant. Never click on links in unsolicited text messages or emails. Always verify any claims of unpaid tolls through official channels. If you receive a suspicious message, contact the toll authority directly using the contact information found on their official website. Report any scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your local law enforcement agency. Sharing this information with friends and family can also help to prevent them from becoming victims.

In an environment of increasing cybercrime, maintaining a critical mindset and actively taking precautions is crucial. By staying informed, being cautious, and reporting any suspicious activity, drivers can help protect themselves and others from falling prey to these increasingly prevalent and damaging scams.