Think you owe a congestion pricing fine? Scammers may be behind it
NEW YORK - As New York City's congestion pricing program takes effect, scammers are using phishing schemes to exploit drivers, posing as legitimate tolling agencies to steal sensitive information.
How to spot a phishing scam
What we know:
The $9 congestion pricing fee for entering Manhattan below 60th Street during peak hours began on January 5. Almost immediately, phishing scams began targeting drivers, with fake notices from "NY Tolls Services" seeking personal and financial information.
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The landmark initiative, which began on Sunday, is designed to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and raise funds for much-needed public transit upgrades.
Officials have warned that the MTA will not charge fines or late fees during the program’s first 60 days, making any such claims from unsolicited sources suspect. Once the 60-day grace period ends, late fees will apply.
According to the MTA, it will charge $5 for a toll that is 30 days past due and $50 for a toll that is 60 days past due.
What drivers should be on alert for:
- Messages urging immediate action to avoid fees or penalties.
- Links to websites with suspicious URLs or misspelled words.
- Requests for personal details like PINs, passwords, or financial information.
Suspicious emails can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov, and drivers should contact E-ZPass New York directly at 800-333-8655 for assistance.
The backstory:
Phishing scams targeting toll services have been an issue even before congestion pricing launched. Scammers impersonate legitimate tolling agencies, like E-ZPass, to deceive drivers into sharing information such as Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords.
"We have recently learned of a SMS text message scam being presented as an attempt to collect tolls for the Congestion Relief Zone, formally known as the Central Business District Tolling Program. Some of these messages reference the "NY Toll Services"; while others are using other fictitious names. Please be advised this is NOT an authorized communication from E-ZPass or the Toll Agencies associated with E-ZPass," a message on the official Tolls by Mail New York system's website reads. "We advise you NOT to access the website contained within the message if you should receive one. E-ZPass New York will never ask for a customer’s Date of Birth, Social Security Number, or other personally identifiable information."
Officials emphasize that legitimate agencies like Tolls by Mail New York do not request sensitive information via email or text.
What you can do:
The MTA uses cashless tolling systems, charging drivers through E-ZPass or sending bills via mail for non-users. Legitimate payments can be made through Tolls by Mail New York at TollsByMailNY.com or by contacting their customer service. The MTA also encourages drivers to enroll in E-ZPass for added convenience and discounts.
If you receive a phishing message:
- Report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
- Verify any claims directly on the toll service’s legitimate website or customer service line.
- Avoid clicking on links or sharing personal information in unsolicited messages.
- Delete the message immediately.