If you’ve received a text message demanding that you pay an unpaid toll fee or parking ticket ASAP, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, many Ohio consumers are receiving similar fraudulent text messages, which claim to be from the
Ohio Turnpike, E-Z Pass or even another state’s toll authority. Also, media reports indicate that phony texts have gone out claiming that consumers owe money for city of Columbus parking tickets. The legitimate Ohio Turnpike has posted a scam alert on its website citing an “ongoing, nationwide texting scam”; Columbus’ real
Division of Mobility & Parking Services likewise has clarified on its website that it does not request payment by text message.
How to protect yourself from these scam texts:
- Do NOT click links or provide payment information.
- Verify directly by contacting the toll authority or parking service through official channels.
- Report scams to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at 800-282-0515.
- Stay alert and stay informed.
For more consumer protection resources, visit www.OhioProtects.org.