Fraud Watch: How Cybercriminals Are Scheming Against Toll-Paying Drivers

The AARP Fraud Watch Network is warning people about a newer scam called "smishing."

Fraud Watch Network volunteer Jeff Miller joins us today to tell us how cybercriminals are now targeting drivers to pay fake highway tolls.

"Smishing is the same as phishing, but rather than emailing, the criminals send texts. In this case, the text claims the driver owes outstanding tolls and is threatened with late fee charges if they aren’t paid immediately. The scammers want recipients to click on the link and then they can then take consumers’ information and use it at financial institutions to gain access to banking information.

According to the Attorney General's office thousands of complaints have come to the FBI in the last few months. So far, it’s being reported in eight states, including Oklahoma.

To protect yourself from this type of scam First, slow down. Don't click on links or respond to the text. Second, check with the tolling agency. Third, don't engage. Before you delete the message, screenshot it so you can report it to the AG’s office. "