A persistent toll text message scam has grown more sophisticated, with scammers now employing artificial intelligence to exploit unsuspecting victims. Cybersecurity experts warn that this technology is streamlining criminals’ efforts to siphon money from individuals.

The scam texts typically claim the recipient has an unpaid toll balance, warning that failure to settle it could lead to legal consequences.

“It’s a hugely popular scam for several reasons. For one, the amounts are small—$3 or $4—so people pay to avoid issues with their E-ZPass or other toll accounts,” cybersecurity expert Anthony Mongeluzo told WTVT.

Embedded in the message is a payment link that directs users to a fake website mimicking the official SunPass site. While the Florida Attorney General has already disabled the specific link referenced in recent messages, Mongeluzo notes that scammers are undeterred, thanks to AI-powered tools.

“AI is alarming. It’s crafting more convincing messages in real-time by analyzing which ones get the most responses. Then it generates more of those successful messages, boosting click-through rates,” Mongeluzo explained.

He added that convincing someone to pay a fake toll is just the start. When victims use the fraudulent site, they hand over sensitive details—names, addresses, and credit card numbers—which scammers can sell on the black market.

“Once they’ve hooked you, they’ll keep targeting you, building a profile. Unlike humans, AI doesn’t tire or pause—it’s relentless and keeps improving,” Mongeluzo explained to WTVT.

Last year, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center recorded roughly 2,000 complaints about toll text scams. That number has now surged to approximately 60,000.

“Stay vigilant. If you get an email, text, or notice claiming you owe money or your account is overdue with urgent threats, call the official number directly to verify,” Mongeluzo advised.

To report a toll text scam to the Florida Attorney General’s Office, visit: https://www.myfloridacfo.com/safe/report-fraud-and-scams

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