Kansans warned not to fall prey to unpaid toll scam as fraudsters persist

WICHITA, Kan. (KCTV) - One year after a nationwide unpaid toll texting scam surfaced in the Sunflower State, leaders have once again warned community not to fall victim.

The Kansas Turnpike Authority says that after nearly a year of warnings to travelers about a nationwide fraudulent texting scam, it has once again urged Kansans to be cautious about unpaid toll texts.

“We do not send unsolicited text messages about tolls,” said Donnell Brown, KTA’s Senior Customer Service Manager. “A person only receives a text if they have a DriveKS and have signed up for text notifications in their preferences. Then, the person is required to to their DriveKS to view their statement and/or pay a bill.”

KTA noted that fraudulent texts and instant messages have been sent to random phone numbers without regard to actual toll roadway usage or vehicle ownership. These texts urge quick action to avoid a penalty and include a link or URL to a fake website that mimics Kansas’ or another state’s toll payment website.

“KTA is working with other toll agencies across the country, the Federal Trade Commission, the FBI and Attorney General offices to quickly identify and shut down fraudulent sites,” said Bruce Meisch, KTA’s Director of Technology. “Collectively, this group is responsible for shutting down thousands of fraudulent websites.”

Those who do receive an unsolicited text have been urged by the Kansas Turnpike Authority and the Kansas Department of Transportation not to click the link. Rather, the message should be reported to the Federal Trade Commission or the Internet Crime Complaint Center.

If payment information has been provided, KTA said those who have fallen victim to the scam should their bank or credit card company immediately. For more information, click HERE.

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