PennDOT Warns of Text Phishing Scams Aimed At PA Drivers

PENNSYLVANIA — Drivers are being warned about text phishing scams targeting Pennsylvanians that threaten the suspension of driving and vehicle privileges for not paying a fine or toll violation.

PennDOT said it does not send text messages to customers for any reason, and uses traditional mail sent via the U.S. Postal Service to communicate with Pennsylvanians.

“If you receive a text message notice from a sender claiming to be from PennDOT who is threatening to suspend your license or registration privilege, do not click on any links and just delete the message,” said PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services Deputy Secretary Kara Templeton. “These messages are not from PennDOT.”

(This is part of a phishing text received by a Patch reporter. If you receive something similar, delete it right away. PennDOT does not send text messages to customers for any reason.)

Scammers send phishing texts claiming to be PennDOT and threatening sanctions against driving privileges or vehicle registration. Pennsylvanians should not click on any links in these text messages to avoid giving scammers any personal or financial information that they can use to steal a customer’s identity or money.

The Pennsylvania State Police emphasizes the importance of protecting oneself from scams by following these guidelines:

• Never share personal information, including banking or credit card details, through email or text message.
• Stay vigilant. Scam emails or text messages usually appear legitimate.
• If you are not expecting an email or text message from an entity, do not click on any links or respond to the message.
• Look up a legitimate customer service phone number for the entity and contact them directly.

"Unfortunately, malicious actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to exploit Pennsylvanians," said Lieutenant Colonel George L. Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. "The PSP is warning the public about scam text messages that appear to be from PennDOT. These messages threaten license suspension or legal action, urging recipients to log in through a provided link. Such messages are fraudulent and are designed to create a sense of urgency to steal personal or financial information. It is crucial for everyone to recognize the signs of a scam and take proactive steps to protect themselves."

The PSP advises that victims of scams should contact their local law enforcement agency and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Since 2024, state tolling agencies across the country have also seen a surge in fake texts requesting money for unpaid tolls, all in an effort to steal personal and financial information. PA Turnpike does not text E-ZPass or Toll By Plate customers, and the links included in the text message are not connected to their organization. The PA Turnpike also advises that customers receiving unsolicited texts, emails, or similar messages suggesting they are from the PA Turnpike or another toll agency should not click on the link.

E-ZPass account holders and Toll By Plate customers can use approved, safe methods to check their accounts such as the official PA Turnpike E-ZPass website or the PA Toll Pay app available from the Apple App Store or Google Play store.