Delaware residents continue to be warned to watch out for a widespread text message scam targeting E-ZPass users.

State officials warned residents about an ongoing text message scam targeting E-ZPass holders, following a surge in fraudulent messages demanding immediate toll payments.

The scam begins with a text message that appears to be from an E-ZPass toll system, claiming the recipient owes money for unpaid tolls. The message typically includes a link and threaten higher late fees if payment isn’t made immediately.

But it’s not the toll money scammers are after—it’s your identity.

Although the links appear to be from legitimate toll services, they redirect users to malicious websites designed to collect financial and personal data.

State and federal officials respond to complaints

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center began documenting complaints about toll-related smishing texts in early March 2024. The agency said fraudulent messages impersonate multiple road toll collection services, including E-ZPass and EZDriveMa.

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, or DMV, issued a public notice in February 2025 alerting customers to the scam following a spike in reports of these fraudulent text messages. Authorities emphasized that E-ZPass Delaware never contacts customers via text or email for violation payments or account funding. DMV Director Amy Anthony cautioned that phishing scams are designed to create panic and trick recipients into acting impulsively.

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How to report suspicious messages

Residents can report fraudulent texts through three channels:

1. Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM)
2. Report through their messaging app’s spam reporting feature
3. File a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov)

Officials advise that if you believe you may owe money to E-ZPass, use your usual login method to check your account directly on the official website and never through a link in a text.

You can contact staff reporter Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com.