HOUSTON — People have received texts saying their past due balance on their accounts needs to be settled. The message contains a link that claims to direct the recipient to pay. In September 2024, the Texas Department of Transportation warned drivers about the spike in texts targeting TxTag customers.
In Dec. 2024, Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) took over handling TXTag Toll collection and customer services in the Houston and Austin areas. VERIFY viewer Elbert asked about the fraudulent activity concerning the toll roads.
THE QUESTION
Are HCTRA customers receiving toll scam texts?
THE SOURCES
Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA)
Texas Department of Transportation
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
THE ANSWER
Yes, HCTRA customers are receiving toll scam texts.
WHAT WE FOUND
Since Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) took over toll billing and customer services for TxTag customers, on Dec. 2, 2024, HCTRA says in an email response to KHOU 11 Verify, "We have had a small group of customers reach out to us in the last two weeks saying they had received phishing texts."
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) phishing, also known as smishing, are fraudulent text messages designed to trick the receiver into revealing sensitive information. The texts usually appear to be from a legitimate source, or even people you may know. The texts are designed to create a sense of urgency and fear if action is not taken immediately.
The scam texts received by some HCTRA customers, impersonated the agency oftentimes telling recipients they need to settle their debt, to avoid a late fee. The text contained a link for people to click on to pay the outstanding balance. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) since early March 2024, the Internet Crimes Complaint Center (IC3) received more than 2,000 complaints from multiple states.
HCTRA says, "The most important thing customers should know is that HCTRA does not send text messages regarding payments due or toll violations. We strongly encourage tag users to stay vigilant, never provide personal information to an unknown requester, and when in doubt, contact us."
According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center Americans have lost $12.5 billion to scams. According to a 2023 report from the FBI, Texas ranks second to California in dollars lost.
Those who receive text messages or emails they believe to be a scam, can file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.