I have received a Text Message Stating I have an Unpaid Toll Road bill. I have not been on any toll roads in the last year at least. There is no context to a date or location.I have not responded, they claim they will contact the DMV with this unpaid Fee.What should I do

It’s definitely wise to be cautious when receiving unexpected messages about unpaid bills, especially when they lack specific details. Since you haven’t been on any toll roads recently, it’s highly possible this is a scam. Here’s a breakdown of what you should do:

1. Do NOT click any links or call any numbers in the text message. This is the most important step. Scammers often use these tactics to steal personal information or install malware on your device.  
2. Do NOT reply to the text message. Even replying “stop” can sometimes confirm your number is active and lead to more spam.  
3. Independently verify the information. Don’t rely on the message itself. If you’re concerned about a potential toll debt, search online for the official website of the toll authority in your state or region. Look for their contact information and reach out to them directly to inquire if you have any outstanding tolls. This way, you’re contacting them through a legitimate channel, not one provided by a potential scammer.
4. Check your credit report. While unpaid tolls might not always appear on your credit report immediately, it’s a good practice to monitor your credit for any unauthorized activity. You can get free copies of your credit report from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) annually at AnnualCreditReport.com.  
5. Report the scam. You can report the suspicious text message to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. This helps them track and potentially take action against scammers. You can also report it to your phone carrier.  
6. Be wary of future messages. Unfortunately, once scammers have your number, you might receive more similar messages. Continue to be vigilant and follow the same precautions.

Key things to remember:

• Legitimate toll authorities will usually send toll violation notices by mail, not text message.  
• Official agencies like the DMV will not contact you initially via text message about unpaid fees.
• Never provide personal information or payment information through unsolicited text messages.

By taking these steps, you can protect yourself from potential scams and ensure you’re only dealing with legitimate sources. Sources and related content