Lawrence, Kan. – The Kansas Turnpike Authority is warning the public about a new scam involving fraudulent text messages, a practice known as “smishing.” The scam involves text messages asking for payment for tolls, but the texts are actually from scammers. This comes after KTA officials recently switched to a cashless billing system that reads a car’s K-Tag or license plate for billing.
Rachel Bell from KTA stated that some customers have fallen for the scam, with fraudulent texts demanding toll payments and linking to a fake website that appears to be KTA’s billing platform. The scammers then use this site to steal personal information and credit card numbers. KTA emphasizes that they never send unsolicited text messages.
Cybersecurity experts, like Burton Kelso, advise people to delete these messages immediately as cybercriminals are using AI to craft urgent-seeming messages. They warn that scammers could potentially steal personal information and even intercept tax refunds. Victims are encouraged to contact the police and file a report with the FBI.
The scam is not limited to turnpike customers, as even people who do not own vehicles or are in a different state have reported receiving these fraudulent text messages. KTA and cybersecurity experts urge caution and vigilance in dealing with any unsolicited messages demanding payment.
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Photo credit fox4kc.com
