Tipp of the Week-Unpaid Toll Scam

Hello Tipp City! Marc the Cop here,

Beware of the “Unpaid Toll Subpoena” Text Message Scam

Residents across the country are reporting a new text message scam that claims the recipient owes unpaid tolls and is facing legal action. The message often includes a photo of what appears to be an official subpoena or court document. While the image may look convincing, authorities warn that this is a growing fraud designed to scare people into paying money or revealing personal information.

Here’s how the scam typically works: You receive a text message stating that you have unpaid toll charges and must immediately respond to avoid fines, license suspension, or even a court appearance. Attached to the message is a photo of a subpoena, citation, or legal notice. The document may include official-looking seals, case numbers, and language that suggests a court has already been involved.

• The goal is simple: create urgency and fear.

• The message usually instructs the recipient to click a link or call a number to resolve the matter. In many cases, victims are directed to a fake payment site that looks like a legitimate toll authority website. Once there, they are asked to pay the supposed toll balance along with “processing fees” or “court costs.” Sometimes the scammers request credit card information, banking details, or even Social Security numbers.

• Other versions of the scam ask victims to download an app or reply with personal information to “verify the citation.” Doing so can expose sensitive data or install malicious software on your phone.

• Here’s the most important thing to remember: legitimate toll agencies do not send subpoenas by text message.

• Official court subpoenas are served in person by a process server, deputy sheriff, or sent through formal legal channels. Toll agencies also do not initiate legal action through a random text message containing a picture of a court document.

• Scammers rely on the fact that many drivers travel through toll roads without always remembering where they were. When people see an official-looking document with their phone number attached, they may assume it is legitimate and pay the fee quickly to avoid trouble.

• There are several warning signs to watch for: The message arrives unexpectedly from an unfamiliar phone number. The document appears as a photo or screenshot instead of an official mailed notice. The text demands immediate payment or threatens legal consequences. The payment link does not clearly belong to a recognized toll authority. The message pressures you to act quickly.

• If you receive a message like this, do not click any links or reply to the sender. Instead, delete the message and report it as spam through your phone carrier. If you are concerned that you may actually owe tolls, contact the toll authority directly using the official phone number or website listed online.

• You can also report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

• Remember, scammers succeed by creating panic and urgency. Taking a moment to verify the information can protect both your wallet and your personal identity.

• When it comes to unexpected legal threats sent by text message, the safest response is simple: don’t click, don’t reply, and delete.

That is all for this week! Please be safe and care for one another. 

Don’t forget the 9 PM routine! The 9 P.M. Routine is a nightly reminder for residents to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicle doors, secure their residences, turn on exterior lights, and activate all alarms and security systems. Pick up your 9 PM Reminder magnet at the Tipp City Police Department during regular business hours, while supplies last.

I'll see you in church on Sunday!

Sgt. Marc Basye (Ret.)

Do you have a suggestion for the Tip of the Week? Your input is valuable to us. You can email me at Marcthecop@tippgazette.com!

The opinions and statements in this column are those of the author, who is not affiliated with any law enforcement agency. This column is for entertainment purposes only. Persons referred to may be fictional for comedic purposes only.