Topline:
If you've gotten a text saying you owe a FasTrak toll fee with a link to a website where you can pay it — beware! It's a scam that's been going around and California Attorney General Rob Bonta is warning residents to be on the lookout.
How they try to get you: The text will say you need to pay for use of a FasTrak lane to avoid late fees or potential legal action, and provides a link to a website that claims to be run by The Toll Roads, a California tolling agency. It may also ask you to respond to the text
Why it's a scam: Bonta's office says FasTrak, the state's electronic toll collection system, does not request payment by sending you a text with a website link. The Toll Roads, a state tolling agency, does not send texts to people who don't have an account with them.
What to do if you get this text:
- DO NOT reply or follow the link!
- File a report with the FBI, the Federal Trade Commission and Attorney General Bonta's office and be sure to include the number the text came from and the website
- Delete the text after you submit your complaints! If you want to delete it right away, take a screenshot so you have the number it came from and website link for when you report it.
- Log into your FasTrak or tolling agency account through their legitimate website to check your account. You can find a list of all tolling agencies in California and their websites here.