The Florida Attorney General’s Office has successfully shut down hundreds of fraudulent SunPass websites that were targeting individuals to steal their personal and financial information.

SunPass users have reported receiving deceptive toll notices via text messages and emails, a tactic known as “phishing” or “smishing.” These messages often contain links and create a sense of urgency by threatening penalties for non-payment.

When victims click on the link, they are directed to a fraudulent site where they are asked to provide personal and financial information, which scammers then use for identity theft or fraud.

The Florida Attorney General’s Office, in collaboration with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, has been working for months to seize these fraudulent sites to protect consumers.

The Florida AG’s Office advises users to first verify the source by contacting SunPass or E-ZPass directly through their official customer service numbers. Additionally, users should check their accounts for unpaid tolls using the official SunPass or E-ZPass portals, rather than links in unsolicited emails or texts.

It is important to note that any message threatening penalties for immediate payment is likely a scam.

For more information on avoiding scams, refer to the “Scams at a Glance: SunPass Safety” guide.

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Google, & X

(Image credit: WRBW)