Toll scams have been increasingly popular over the last year, affecting drivers across the country. Maryland drivers have recently become the main target of scammers seeking to steal personal information. Keep reading for more details and tips on how to protect yourself.

Toll Scams Explained

Scammers send messages with links to fake websites, urging would-be victims to pay a non-existent toll. These sites are designed to steal your sensitive information if you enter it, while the messages themselves aim to scare you into doing just that.

MVA Scam Text

The MVA text scam targets Maryland drivers, threatening them with DMV reports, vehicle registration suspension, and more. Here’s what the scam text looks like:

Content of the MVA text scam:

• Maryland State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin onJune 5. Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. In accordance with New Maryland State Administrative Code 15C-16.003, if you do not complete payment by June 4, 2025, we will take the following actions: 1. Report to the DMV violation database 2. Suspend your vehicle registration starting June 5 3. Suspend driving privileges for 30 days 4. Transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee 5. You may be prosecuted and your credit score will be affected Pay Now: <URL> Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes. (Reply Y and re-open this message to click the link, or copy it to your browser.)

MVA Text Scam: How to Stay Safe

If you mistakenly provide your information on a scammer-controlled site, they could commit financial fraud or identity theft under your name. If you receive any unexpected payment requests, contact the purported source through official channels. Generally, if you weren’t expecting a charge, consider it suspicious.

• Stay Cautious: If you receive such a text, pause and verify its legitimacy. Legitimate government agencies will never ask for payment via unsolicited email or text message.
• Use Trend Micro ScamCheck: When you’re not sure if something’s a scam, check with Trend Micro ScamCheck! Here’s what ScamCheck thinks of the MVA scam text:

• Check Official Sources: Visit the official MVA website directly (not through any links in a text or email).
• Report Scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to the relevant authorities.

If you’ve made a payment already, you should contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report the charges.

ScamCheck: Your All-in-One Defense Against Scams

Available for both Android and iOS, Trend Micro ScamCheck offers comprehensive protection from deceptive phishing scams, scam and spam text messages, and more:

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To download Trend Micro ScamCheck or to learn more, click the button below.

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