Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images
Topics: Technology, iPhone, Social Media, Crime, Money, Cars
Ellie Kemp
Topics: Technology, iPhone, Social Media, Crime, Money, Cars
The FBI have issued yet another warning over a scam which could impact pretty much anyone with a smartphone.
While we probably couldn't live without our technology now, a major downside is that it provides a direct line between us and scheming fraudsters.
And while scams aren't anything new, criminals are getting more and more sophisticated in how they target us.
Previously, the FBI warned us to immediately hang up the phone if we get a certain type of call, and now, iPhone and Android users are also be warned about a particular sort of text that should be deleted right away.
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This new scam is a text telling Americans they've got unpaid road tolls to settle - regardless of whether tolls exist in your state.
The phishing trick appears to have been executed rather haphazardly, targeting even those who can't drive.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) explained. "Scammers are pretending to be tolling agencies from coast to coast and sending texts demanding money.
"The scammy text might show a dollar amount for how much you supposedly owe and include a link that takes you to a page to enter your bank or credit card info — but it’s a phishing scam."
The FTC continued: "Not only is the scammer trying to steal your money, but if you click the link, they could get your personal info - like your driver’s license number - and even steal your identity."
People have since taken to social media to share examples of the texts they've received.
"Anyone else getting texts like this? I’ve gotten two today. Different websites though," one shared, adding: "I know it’s a scam because I don’t go on toll roads. Just wondering if others get this too."
A second shared their text, writing: "Scammers we don’t have tolls in CT. Maybe try to scam someone in a state where they do have tolls."
Meanwhile a third laughed: "Getting those toll road scam messages when I don’t even have a drivers license."
If you do find yourself on the receiving end of one of these pesky texts, then here's what you need to do.
The FCT firstly advises: "Don’t click on any links in, or respond to, unexpected texts. Scammers want you to react quickly, but it’s best to stop and check it out."
Next, check to see if the text is legit, adding: "Reach out to the state’s tolling agency using a phone number or website you know is real — not the info from the text."
Finally, they said: "Report and delete unwanted text messages. Use your phone’s report junk option to report unwanted texts to your messaging app or forward them to 7726 (SPAM).
"Once you’ve checked it out and reported it, delete the text."