At UHS Employees Federal Credit Union, we’re committed to protecting our members, especially our dedicated healthcare professionals, against fraud. One of the newest threats making the rounds is a text message scam related to unpaid tolls.

If you’ve received a text claiming you owe money for a missed toll, read on. This could be a scam.

What Is the Toll Text Scam?

Scammers are sending fake texts that appear to come from legitimate toll agencies like EZPass or your state’s transportation department. These messages often warn you about unpaid tolls and include a link to “pay now.”

Example message:

“You have an unpaid toll balance. Pay immediately to avoid late fees: [fake link]”

These texts look convincing and are designed to make you act fast without thinking.

How to Spot a Scam Text

Keep an eye out for these red flags:

● You weren’t expecting a toll notice

You haven’t driven through a toll booth or used toll roads recently.

● Urgency or threats

The message pressures you to pay immediately to avoid extra fees or legal consequences.

● Weird links or web addresses

Scam URLs might look like “ezpass-paynow.com” instead of the official domain.

● Bad grammar or typos

Legitimate companies usually don’t make spelling mistakes in official messages.

● Requests for personal information

Toll agencies will never ask for your Social Security number or banking credentials via text.

How to Protect Yourself

If you get a suspicious toll-related text:

1. Do NOT click any links

2. Do NOT reply to the message

3. Block the number

4. Screenshot the message in case you need to report it

5. Report it to:

○ The FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov

○ Your mobile provider by forwarding the message to 7726 (spells “SPAM”)

If you think the message could be real, visit your toll service’s official website or call them directly. Never trust contact info provided in a suspicious message.

Already Clicked? Here’s What to Do

If you’ve already clicked a link and entered personal or financial info:

● Contact UHS Employees FCU immediately

We can help secure your account and walk you through next steps.

● Change any compromised passwords

Especially your online banking credentials.

● Scan your phone for malware

Use trusted antivirus software.

● Keep an eye on your accounts

Watch for unauthorized transactions.

● Report the incident

Notify your workplace IT department, especially if you used a hospital-issued device.

You Protect Lives—Let Us Help Protect Yours

We know how hard you work every day in the medical field. Scammers count on you being too busy to double-check a text message. Take a breath, think twice, and remember: when in doubt, don’t click.

At UHS Employees FCU, we’re always here to support you. If you ever feel uncertain about a message or need help securing your accounts, contact us right away.

Stay safe, and thank you for everything you do.