The EZDriveMA Scam

Imagine getting a text saying you owe $6.99 for an unpaid toll, urging you to click a link to avoid fines. This is the EZDriveMA scam, a text message-based fraud targeting Massachusetts drivers. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) warns that these messages are fake, aiming to steal personal and financial information.

The EZDriveMA scam text has surged in 2025, with thousands of complaints reported. It’s part of a broader wave of smishing (SMS phishing) scams tracked by the FBI. This article explains the scam, how to spot it, and steps to stay safe, using official sources like MassDOT and the FBI.

Awareness is key to avoiding the EZDriveMA scam text message. By understanding its tactics and following expert advice, you can protect yourself from this growing threat.

Background on EZDriveMA

EZDriveMA is Massachusetts’ official toll collection system, managed by MassDOT. It includes E-ZPass MA for electronic tolls and Pay By Plate MA for mailed invoices, used on roads like the Massachusetts Turnpike and Tobin Bridge. The system processes millions of transactions yearly, serving drivers across the state.

Official communications from EZDriveMA come through secure channels like the EZDriveMA website or mailed notices, never unsolicited texts. Payments are requested via the website or customer service at (877) 627-7745. This structured process ensures transparency and security.

The EZDriveMA scam? question arises because scammers exploit the system’s name to trick people. Unlike legitimate operations, these scams use random texts to deceive, highlighting the need to verify any toll-related message.

What is the EZDriveMA Scam?

The what is EZDriveMA scam question has a clear answer: it’s a smishing scam where fraudsters send texts pretending to be EZDriveMA, claiming unpaid tolls. First reported in June 2024, it surged during the 2025 holidays, with over 2,000 complaints by April 2024, per the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

These scams are part of a national trend targeting toll systems like E-ZPass and SunPass. Scammers don’t target specific users but send texts randomly, even to non-drivers. The goal is to trick people into sharing sensitive data.

The EZDriveMA scam message often demands small payments, like $6.99, to seem believable. It’s not just a Massachusetts issue—similar scams have hit New Jersey and New Hampshire, showing a coordinated effort.

How the EZDriveMA Scam Works

The EZDriveMA scam texts follow a simple but dangerous pattern. You receive a text claiming you owe a small toll, like $6.99, with a link to pay immediately. Clicking the link leads to a fake website that steals your credit card or personal information.

• Sample Text: “EZDriveMA: Your vehicle has an unpaid toll bill of $6.99. Pay now to avoid late fees: [fake link].”
• Tactics: Scammers use urgent language, like “pay immediately,” to pressure victims. The low amount makes it seem legitimate.
• Risks: Entering details on fake sites can lead to identity theft or malware infections.

MassDOT confirms these texts often come from random or international numbers, not tied to toll usage. The FBI notes that scammers exploit trust in government agencies to harvest data.

Official Warnings and Responses

MassDOT and the FBI have issued strong warnings about the EZDriveMA scam text message. MassDOT emphasizes: “EZDriveMA will never request payment by text, and all links include www.EZDriveMA.com.” The agency urges users to verify accounts directly at EZDriveMA.com.

The FBI’s IC3 has tracked this scam since March 2024, receiving thousands of complaints. It recommends reporting texts at ic3.gov, including the sender’s number and website. Local police, like Swansea and Dartmouth departments, also warn residents.

In 2025, MassDOT’s Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver reported receiving a scam text, showing no one is immune. The scam’s persistence across states suggests a sophisticated operation, possibly international.

Impact and Victim Reports

The EZDriveMA scam has affected thousands, with significant impacts. The FBI’s IC3 reported over 2,000 complaints by mid-2024, with numbers rising in 2025. Victims risk identity theft, unauthorized charges, or long-term financial damage from stolen data.

• Victim Example: A Massachusetts resident paid $6.99 via a fake link, only to find their credit card used for larger purchases.
• Vulnerable Groups: Seniors and non-drivers are often targeted due to their unfamiliarity with toll systems.

The scam’s random targeting means anyone with a phone could receive a text. Even non-toll users have reported EZDriveMA scam emails or texts, showing the broad reach of this fraud.

How to Protect Yourself

Protecting yourself from the EZDriveMA scam texts starts with caution. MassDOT advises: never click links in unsolicited texts, and delete them immediately. Verify your account only through EZDriveMA.com or by calling (877) 627-7745.

• Red Flags:
  • Texts from unknown or international numbers.
  • Links not containing www.EZDriveMA.com.
  • Urgent demands for payment.
• Tips:
  • Enable two-factor authentication on financial accounts.
  • Use spam blockers on your phone.
  • Monitor bank statements for unusual activity.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends skepticism toward urgent messages. Educating family, especially seniors, can reduce risks.

What to Do If You’ve Been Affected

If you’ve fallen for the EZDriveMA scam message, act quickly. Contact your bank to secure accounts and dispute charges. Change passwords and scan devices for malware. Report the scam to IC3 with the sender’s number and website.

• Steps:
  • Call your bank or credit card provider first.
  • Place fraud alerts on accounts.
  • Monitor credit reports via AnnualCreditReport.com.
• Reporting: Forward texts to 7726 (SPAM) and file with the FTC.

Long-term, consider credit freezes to prevent identity theft. Quick action can limit damage from the EZDriveMA scam.

Broader Context and Future Outlook

The is EZDriveMA scam question reflects a broader rise in smishing attacks. The FBI notes a 141% increase in social engineering scams, fueled by AI making texts more convincing. Similar scams target postal services or banks, exploiting trust in familiar names.

Nationally, toll scams have hit states like Rhode Island and Pennsylvania, suggesting a coordinated network. The FCC is exploring stronger SMS regulations, but scammers often use international numbers, complicating enforcement.

Public education remains critical. As digital threats evolve, verifying communications through official channels like EZDriveMA.com is the best defense.

Conclusion

The EZDriveMA scam is a serious threat, using fake texts to steal personal and financial data. By recognizing red flags, verifying through official sources, and reporting incidents, you can stay safe. MassDOT and the FBI emphasize: never trust unsolicited texts.

Stay vigilant, share this information, and always check EZDriveMA.com or call (877) 627-7745 for toll concerns. In today’s digital world, skepticism is your best protection against the EZDriveMA scam text.