Kansas toll payment scam is spreading

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Have you received a scam text message regarding paying a Kansas toll payment? You’re not alone.

The scam tries to intimidate people with threats, whether you took a toll or not, including the following:

• Threatening legal action
• Losing your driver’s license
• Late fees or penalties

The Kansas Turnpike issued the following on its website:

Be aware of fake messages claiming you have outstanding tolls due on a Kansas toll facility. These messages include a link or URL instructing you to visit a fake website that mimics a KTA or DriveKS web site or a toll web site in another part of the country.

KTA does not send unsolicited texts or emails. You receive this type of communication from KTA if you’ve signed up for it, either through self-service channels or when contacting DriveKS customer service. You control your account communication preferences. An official DriveKS text will also require you to login to your DriveKS account.

These scams are successful because they scare people into acting quickly, using language like final notice, avoid penalties or similar. Websites provided will closely resemble legitimate toll payment sites due to using graphics from official online sources. Texts go to random phone numbers regardless of whether a person has a toll account or even used a toll road.

If you’ve received a scam message, report it here: www.ic3.gov. If you’ve provided payment information at a fraudulent web site, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.