Ohio Turnpike Alerts Customers of SMS/Text ‘Smishing’ Scam
Targeting Multiple Tolling Agencies
BEREA, Ohio (April 22, 2024) – The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission has
learned that a text message scam, known as “smishing,” is fraudulently claiming to
represent tolling agencies from across the country. The scammers are requesting payment
for unpaid tolls through fraudulent websites.
The targeted phone numbers appear to be chosen at random and are not uniquely
associated with an account or usage of toll roads. Some customers have also reported
receiving emails through phishing scams.
The Ohio Turnpike does NOT request its E-ZPass customers to make payments by
text. Collections of unpaid tolls and/or toll violations do NOT occur by text either.
The only website links associated with the Ohio Turnpike’s E-ZPass accounts are
ezpassoh.com and ohioturnpike.org.
The FBI, which is aware of the smishing scam impacting several states, recommends
individuals who receive the fraudulent messages do the following:
• Contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov, and be sure to
include:
o The phone number from where the text originated.
o Contact the tolling agency’s customer service center.
• Delete any smishing texts received.
• If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your
personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.
We encourage all customers to stay alert to these types of phishing scams by text and
email.
For questions about the Ohio Turnpike’s E-ZPass notifications, contact ezpassoh.com or
ohioturnpike.org.
Contact:
Charles Cyrill
Communications Director
Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission
(m) 440.821.3399
charles.cyrill@ohioturnpike.org
