Based on public warnings reviewed on 16 October 2026. Scam wording changes constantly, so rely on the habits below, not on memorising examples.
What the scam looks like
Public warnings from US agencies describe text messages that claim you owe an unpaid toll or that a parcel could not be delivered. The message usually has three parts:
- Urgency: pay now or face a late fee, suspended registration or a returned package.
- A small amount of money: small sums feel safe to pay.
- A link to a page that copies a real toll operator or courier and asks for your card details.
Scammers copy the names of real services, so the message can look believable even if you have never used that road or ordered that parcel.
Why it works
- Most people drive on tolls or expect parcels, so the story seems plausible.
- The amount is small, so you are less likely to stop and check.
- Phone numbers and website names can be made to look official.
What real organisations do not do
- They do not need your full card number, PIN or one-time code through a text link to “release” a parcel.
- They do not threaten legal action by text for a small unpaid amount.
- They do not ask you to pay through gift cards, crypto or a payment app to a stranger.
Five steps to stay safe
- Do not tap the link. Open the toll or courier’s official website or app yourself.
- Check your account there. If you owe something, it will show.
- Check your order in the shop’s own app if it is a parcel.
- Block and report. Follow how to block and report spam texts.
- Tell people. Older relatives are often targeted.
If you already tapped or paid
- Stop. Do not enter more details.
- Call your bank or card provider using the number on the back of your card.
- Change passwords that may be affected and turn on two-factor authentication.
- Keep a screenshot of the text and report it. In the US you can report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Watch your statements for several weeks.
Make filtering your default
Switch on spam filtering in your messages app and block unknown senders when possible. See how caller ID works and blocking spam calls for the call side of the same problem.
If a text claims to be about a benefit or aid payment, read how to spot fake government websites.