Toll Scam Alert: MnDOT Warns Against Fake E-ZPass "Final Reminder" Texts

Toll Scam Alert: MnDOT Warns Against Fake E-ZPass "Final Reminder" Texts

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is issuing a crucial warning to residents regarding a pervasive scam involving fraudulent text messages and emails falsely claiming to be from E-ZPass or other tolling agencies. These messages, often labeled as an "E-Z Pass Final Reminder," demand immediate payment for alleged outstanding tolls and direct recipients to suspicious payment links.

"This is a scam," states MnDOT officials on their E-ZPass news page, emphasizing, "We will never text or email you asking for payment or personal information."

The fraudulent communications are designed to trick individuals into providing financial details or clicking on malicious links. MnDOT underscores that these messages are not a result of a data breach; rather, text numbers and email addresses are randomly chosen by scammers targeting a wide audience, including those who are not E-ZPass users.

Key Information from MnDOT and Law Enforcement:

• No Official Text/Email Requests for Payment: Minnesota E-ZPass (MnDOT) will never contact you via email or text message to request payment or personal information.
• Random Targeting, Not a Data Breach: The scam messages are sent indiscriminately, not specifically to E-ZPass users, and there has been no data breach.
• Delete and Do Not Interact: If you receive a suspicious text or email, delete it immediately. Do not click on any links or respond. If your device allows, report it as "junk" or "spam" to help improve spam recognition.
• Do Not Create New Accounts: Do not establish a new or different E-ZPass account in response to these scam texts or emails.
• Secure Personal Information: If you have clicked on a link or provided any personal information, take immediate steps to secure your personal information and financial accounts.
• Report Fraud: Fraudulent activity can be reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Verifying Official Correspondence:

While digital scams are prevalent, it's also important to be vigilant about mail. While MnDOT or other official agencies may send legitimate invoices via mail, scam letters often include bogus or questionable URL links and convey a false sense of urgency. Official correspondence will feature agency letterhead, detailed information, and multiple verified methods for contacting and/or remitting payment. Always confirm the legitimacy of any mailed invoice directly with the agency.

For questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, residents can direct their inquiries to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. Trooper Grabow can also be followed on X (formerly Twitter) @MSPPIO_NW or reached via email at jesse.grabow@state.mn.us.

For secure account inquiries, E-ZPass users should always access their information through the official customer portal or contact MnDOT E-ZP directly via their verified channels.

MinneapoliMedia