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by Asher Bookspan, WSBT 22 Reporter
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Texts from unknown numbers have been on the rise, telling targets that they have an outstanding balance.
Officials say that the messages are intended to create fear and a sense of urgency so members of the public act without realizing it is fake.
The texts tell drivers they must pay by a certain date to avoid late fees or even suspension of your license.
Officials say how scammers are able to get your personal information is through a link or phone number in the text.
"The scammers are going to ask for sensitive information like bank account details or credit card info. And then if person clicks on the link in their text, it's going to install malware in their device, and that opens up a doors for them to obtain all sorts of personal information," Northern Indiana Better Business Bureau CEO Jan Diaz said.
Indiana toll road officials stress the first red flag for targets should be the message itself saying quote:
There are steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim. The first thing is to not engage with the scammer.
"Block the number as well. You can block the number and delete the text. That's going to help stop any future messages from that particular scammer. You can text it to 7726 and this will help your wireless provider block similar messages in the future," Diaz said.
Officials also emphasizing to report these scam texts to authorities such as police or the Better Business Bureau.
If you have paid any money to scammers, officials emphasize contacting your bank.

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