The E-ZPass system is widely used across the Midwestern and Eastern zones of the United States.
It allows drivers to pay for the tolls in tolled lanes, tunnels, and bridges without stopping their vehicles. When someone registers on the system, they must attach a small device known as a “transponder” on their vehicle’s windshield.
The system is accepted in 17 states, and others, including Florida, will become part of the network very soon. According to statistics, over 35 million E‑Z Pass devices are in use.
This system is convenient for all drivers who travel through tolled lanes continually. Still, there are problems related to it that you should know. One of these problems is recent scams, which happen via email.
How does this E-ZPass scam work?
The Federal Trade Commission studied the situation and found that a particular group of individuals select potential victims and reach them via email.
People’s email looks like a regular message from the official page would look. It even uses the E-ZPass logo, but here’s when the information starts to go wrong.
The text uses extremely overwhelming and threatening language and contains a link you must use to pay for an invoice – even if you don’t owe the system anything.
In addition, the email informs you that you’ve been driving through toll roads without paying for the tolls or an E-ZPass transponder.
The text finishes with the link to pay we mentioned previously and with them threatening to “take legal action against you” if you don’t pay for the invoice as soon as possible.
What you should do if you receive the email
First, you should know the email is not from the E-ZPass Group or any other toll agency that works within the 17 states the network connects.
The email is sent to any person, regardless of whether they drive through E-ZPass lanes.
If you receive the email, please don’t click on the link they have sent you. The website will try to infect your computer with malware.
In the best scenario, you did not enter personal information on the website. However, if you did, you are at risk. You are putting your identity at risk, as well as your money and safety.
What can I do to protect myself from the scam?
If you receive an email like the one we described, please don’t click on any link it may contain.
Don’t even reply to it! It is recommended to delete it as soon as you realize it may be a scam. Receive a similar email and want to make sure that there are no problems with your E-ZPass account.
You can always contact a customer service representative. They will confirm whether you have a problem with your E-ZPass account and give you different options.
This is one of many similar scams that have happened over the years. Prudence and common sense are the most potent weapons against them.