As millions of Americans hit the road for Memorial Day weekend, cybercriminals have also been gearing up, but for a different kind of traffic. Just as holiday travel surges, so too do opportunistic scams targeting unsuspecting travelers.
One such threat, the Unpaid Toll Scam, has reemerged with renewed intensity, preying on the chaos and distraction that often accompany major holiday weekends. While not new, this scam is evolving and it’s becoming a seasonal staple in the cyber threat landscape.
What is the Unpaid Toll Scam?
Scammers are sending emails and texts that claim you missed paying a highway toll. These messages often include:
- Threats of late fees or legal action
- A link to “view your invoice”
- Official-sounding language and logos that mimic state Departments of Transportation (DOT)
But here’s the catch: it’s fake. You don’t actually have an unpaid toll, and the link doesn’t go to your local DOT. It goes to malware or a phishing site.
Why This Scam Works
These scams work because they prey on everyday situations. You might think to yourself, “Did I forget to pay something?” or “Maybe my original toll payment never processed?” That moment of doubt is all a threat actor needs.
In addition to creating doubt, the messages are short, urgent, and mobile-friendly. This is the perfect combination for catching even the most diligent off guard during a busy day.
What to Watch For
Before you click on anything related to tolls, invoices, or citations:
- Check the sender: Official toll agencies won’t send payment requests via random Gmail or short-code numbers. Most state DOTs will invoice unpaid tolls through physical mail via the USPS.
- Look at the link: Hover over it (on a computer) or long-press (on a phone). Does it go to a strange domain?
- Pause before acting: Urgency is a red flag. If something demands immediate payment, it’s always worth a second look.
What to Do If You Get an Unpaid Toll Notification
- Don’t click the link. Even if you’re curious, close the message.
- Report it.
- Most toll authorities have a fraud reporting system on their websites.
- Reporting the message as junk or spam within your phone’s messaging application will typically send a spam report to your wireless carrier.
- Let your team know. These scams spread quickly. If one person gets it, others in your organization might too.
Cybersecurity threats are evolving. So are we.
At GadellNet, we help small businesses and nonprofits stay ahead of scams with expert-led protection, user training, and fast response.
Check out our related insights on Fake Captcha prompts and the Web Envy scam, or contact us to learn how we can protect your team.
