The unpaid toll text: how to tell it's a scam
What the message looks like
"You have an outstanding toll of $6.99. Pay now to avoid a late fee", with a link.
How to tell it's a scam
The message names a toll service used where you live and says you owe a small unpaid toll, with a late fee if you don't pay today. The link leads to a payment page run by the scammers.
The FBI has warned that these texts are sent to people in many states at once. If you think you might owe a toll, sign in to your toll account by typing its website yourself, never through the link.
The tell: Check your balance on your toll agency's own website or app. Never use the link.
Got one? Check it in seconds
Paste the message into Alice's free scam checker. It shows the warning signs and the exact words that set them off, and the check runs on your own device.
Check a messageAlready clicked, paid or shared details?
If you've paid or given card details, call your bank or card issuer right away on the number on your card.
Where to report it in the US
- Scam or spam text: forward it to 7726 (SPAM) and report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Contacts checked on each organisation's own website, September 2026.
What to do with a message you're not sure about
- Don't click the link, reply, or call the number in the message.
- Check for yourself: open the company's own app, or type its website address yourself.
- If it claims to be family, call them on the number you already have.
- Report it (below), then delete it.
Warn your family or group chat
Scams work best on people who haven't seen them before.
Not sure? Ask Alice
Paste the message into a chat and choose "Is this a scam?". Alice lists the warning signs she can see, gives a verdict, and tells you where to report it. Leave out your own account numbers — she never needs them.
General guidance, not legal or financial advice. If money has already gone, contact your bank first.