Beware: Fake MnDOT Text Messages Target Minnesota Drivers

Photo byMinnesota Department of Transportation

Scammers Impersonate E-ZPass to Steal Personal Info

A new scam is hitting Minnesota drivers' phones. Fraudsters are sending text messages pretending to be from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) or E-ZPass. These fake messages claim you owe money for using Minnesota E-ZPass Express Lanes.

Don't fall for it! This is a scam designed to trick you into giving away your personal information.

How the Scam Works

The scammers send texts or emails that look official. They tell you to click a link or answer the message right away. These crooks pick phone numbers and email addresses at random.

If you respond, you might end up sharing sensitive data like your identity or credit card details.

Protect Yourself: What to Do If You Get a Message

For E-ZPass Account Holders

Minnesota E-ZPass will never ask for your personal info by text or email. They don't take credit card numbers through mail, email, chat, or voicemail.

If you're worried about a message you got:

1. Check your account on the secure customer website
2. Contact E-ZPass directly

For Non-Account Holders

Be on guard. Don't answer anything that seems off or fishy.

If you spot fraud, report it to:

• The Federal Trade Commission
• The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center

Attorney General Warns Minnesotans

Keith Ellison, Minnesota's Attorney General, posted on social media to warn people about the scam. He said MnDOT will never text asking for your personal information.

Ellison urged everyone to report these scams, even if you accidentally responded. He said, "The more light we shine on scammers, the less they can harm us."

Stay alert, Minnesota drivers! Don't let scammers take you for a ride.