HARRISBURG, Pa. – Pennsylvania agencies are warning people about text phishing scams currently targeting Pennsylvanians that threaten the suspension of driving and vehicle registration privileges for not paying a fine or toll violation.

PennDOT does not send text messages to customers for any reason, and uses traditional mail sent via the U.S. Postal Service to communicate with Pennsylvanians, according to a news release from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.

Scammers send phishing texts claiming to be PennDOT and threatening sanctions against driving privileges or vehicle registration, the agencies say.

Pennsylvanians should not click on any links in these text messages to avoid giving scammers any personal or financial information that they can use to steal a customer’s identity or money.

The PSP emphasizes the importance of protecting oneself from scams by following these guidelines: 

 Never share personal information, including banking or credit card details, through email or text message.

Stay vigilant. Scam emails or text messages usually appear legitimate. If you are not expecting an email or text message from an entity, do not click on any links or respond to the message. Look up a legitimate customer service phone number for the entity and contact them directly.

State police say victims of scams should contact their local law enforcement agency and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Since 2024, state tolling agencies across the country have also seen a surge in fake texts requesting money for unpaid tolls, all in an effort to steal personal and financial information, according to the news release.

PA Turnpike does not text E-ZPass or Toll By Plate customers, and the links included in the text message are not connected to their organization, PennDOT, state police, and the turnpike commission say.

The PA Turnpike also advises that customers receiving unsolicited texts, emails, or similar messages suggesting they are from the PA Turnpike or another toll agency should not click on the link.

E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers can use approved, safe methods to check their accounts such as the official PA Turnpike E-ZPass website or the PA Toll Pay app available from the Apple App Store or Google Play store.   

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