New York Officials Warn Drivers About Scam Texts Pretending to Be DMV and Toll Agencies
New York Governor Kathy Hochul and officials from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), New York State Thruway Authority and Metropolitan Transportation Authority are warning motorists about a surge of scam texts and phony websites that pretend to be official notices from the government. The fraudulent messages, which typically claim you owe money for an unpaid ticket or toll, are designed to trick you into clicking a link and providing personal information or payment details. The announcement comes amid an increase in reports from across the state of drivers receiving texts telling them that they have outstanding traffic fines or E‑ZPass fees and must pay immediately to avoid additional penalties.
In the press release, Governor Hochul stresses that protecting consumers from scams is a top priority and encourages anyone receiving suspicious messages to use caution【869488928268812†L60-L115】. These scam texts often replicate the look and feel of official communications, including logos and website layouts, but the links lead to fake websites designed to harvest Social Security numbers, credit card information and other sensitive data. DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder explains that scammers continually evolve their tactics and that the DMV will never ask customers to settle fees via text or request sensitive personal information. Officials from the Thruway Authority and MTA Bridges and Tunnels also remind drivers that legitimate E‑ZPass or Tolls by Mail notices are sent through the mail or official emails, and that the only trustworthy DMV web address is dmv.ny.gov.
The release outlines several ways to protect yourself. If you receive a message about an unpaid ticket or toll, do not click any links or provide any personal information until you can verify the source【869488928268812†L60-L115】. Instead, log in directly to your official E‑ZPass or DMV account or call the agency’s customer service center to confirm whether an issue exists. Never share your Social Security number, bank account details or passwords in response to unsolicited texts or emails. The state also advises residents to monitor their credit reports for unauthorized activity, consider placing a credit freeze if identity theft is suspected, and contact banks or credit card companies immediately to dispute any fraudulent charges.
For assistance or to verify account status, E‑ZPass New York customers can call 1‑800‑333‑TOLL (8655) or use the contact form at e‑zpassny.com. Drivers who receive Tolls by Mail notifications can call 1‑844‑826‑8400. Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam should report it to the DMV and law enforcement. By staying vigilant and verifying the authenticity of any communication, motorists can protect their personal information and avoid becoming victims of these increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes. This effort is part of the Hochul administration’s broader initiative to safeguard New Yorkers from cybercrime and ensure that dealing with tolls and traffic fines remains safe and secure.