ALERT: Phishing for E-ZPass customers; don’t be reeled in

PhishingScam-20140708If you use an E-ZPass to pay your tolls, be warned, there’s a new scam targeting YOU.

The Maine Turnpike Authority warns phony emails are going around telling customers they owe money for unpaid tolls.

The emails look real, even using the E-ZPass logo, but the Maine Turnpike Authority says it’s likely a phishing scam. The alert says to not open or respond to the message.

The E-ZPass Interagency Group says it will never send unsolicited emails demanding payment or asking for personal information.

Microsoft’s Safety & Security Center explains phishing as “email messages, websites, and phone calls designed to steal money.”

Cybercriminals often do this by installing malicious software on your computer to steal personal information.

Some red flags, according to Microsoft:

  • Spelling and bad grammar
  • Links in email
  • Threats
  • Spoofing popular websites or companies

If you have any questions, please call the Customer Service center 1-888-MTA-PASS.

Jon Chrisos

About Jon Chrisos

Award-winning journalist Jon Chrisos is the investigative and consumer reporter at CBS 13 in Portland. He also anchors weeknights at 5:30. Chrisos is “On Your Side” investigating the stories that make a difference in your life. He’s passionate about helping those who’ve been wronged, exposing government waste, asking tough questions, and uncovering the truth.