The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission warned on March 26 that text phishing scams are targeting Pennsylvanians by threatening suspension of driving and vehicle registration privileges for unpaid fines or toll violations.
According to the agencies, PennDOT does not send text messages to customers for any reason and communicates only through traditional mail sent via the U.S. Postal Service. “If you receive a text message notice from a sender claiming to be from PennDOT who is threatening to suspend your license or registration privilege, do not click on any links and just delete the message. These messages are not from PennDOT,” said Kara Templeton, Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services at PennDOT.
Scammers are sending texts that appear to be from PennDOT, threatening sanctions against driving privileges or vehicle registration. Officials say recipients should avoid clicking on any links in these messages to prevent giving scammers access to personal or financial information that could be used for identity theft or financial fraud.
The Pennsylvania State Police advised residents never to share personal information such as banking or credit card details through email or text message. Lieutenant Colonel George L. Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, said, “Unfortunately, malicious actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to exploit Pennsylvanians. The PSP is warning the public about scam text messages that appear to be from PennDOT. These messages threaten license suspension or legal action, urging recipients to log in through a provided link. Such messages are fraudulent and are designed to create a sense of urgency to steal personal or financial information. It is crucial for everyone to recognize the signs of a scam and take proactive steps to protect themselves.” Victims of scams should contact local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
Since 2024, state tolling agencies nationwide have reported an increase in fake texts requesting money for unpaid tolls as part of efforts by scammers seeking personal and financial data. The PA Turnpike does not send texts regarding E-ZPass or Toll By Plate accounts; any links included in such messages are not affiliated with their organization. Customers receiving unsolicited texts or emails purporting to be from PA Turnpike or other toll agencies should avoid clicking on links.
E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers can securely check their accounts using official resources like the PA Turnpike E-ZPass website or the PA Toll Pay app available through Apple App Store and Google Play store. Drivers can also check roadway conditions at www.511PA.com—a free service providing traffic warnings, weather forecasts, speed information, and access to over 1,200 traffic cameras—according to the official roster page at the organization’s website.
