The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has issued a warning to residents regarding a surge in scam text messages. These messages claim to originate from a tolling agency and request payments for overdue fees.

The scam targets consumers with "final reminder" messages purportedly from E-ZPass or the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. The texts include a link urging recipients to pay outstanding balances immediately to avoid penalties and legal repercussions. Upon clicking the link, users are directed to a false toll payment portal that mimics a legitimate site but is operated by scammers.

“Paying a scammer could result in consumers losing their money or scammers accessing their personal information,” cautions the DATCP. They urge consumers to report any suspicious calls, texts, or phone numbers to their service provider by using built-in reporting features on their smartphones.

For additional information and consumer protection resources, or to submit a complaint, individuals can visit the DATCP's Consumer Protection webpage. The DATCP's Consumer Protection Hotline is also available for assistance at (800) 422-7128.