Beware of Toll Fee Text Message Scams in South Carolina

News Summary

Residents of South Carolina are being warned about a text message scam concerning toll charges. The local Department of Consumer Affairs has clarified that the Southern Connector Toll Road does not use SMS to contact customers regarding overdue fees. Instead, official communications come via the United States Postal Service. Residents are urged to ignore dubious texts and report potential scams to the appropriate authorities.

Beware of Toll Fee Text Message Scams in South Carolina!

If you’re living in South Carolina, listen up! The local Department of Consumer Affairs has issued an urgent warning about a devious text message scam that’s been causing quite a stir among residents. This scam is all about toll charges, and it’s been misleading folks into thinking they owe money.

What’s the Scoop?

You may have received a text message out of the blue, informing you that you’ve got overdue toll charges. Sounds alarming, right? But here’s the catch: the Southern Connector Toll Road has came out and clarified that they do NOT contact customers via SMS or text messages! If you’re a driver in the area, keep your eyes peeled and your phone alerts set to stun because this is a scam!

Instead of sending out texts, the good folks at the Southern Connector only reach out to toll violators through the old-school way: the United States Postal Service. So if you’re getting those sneaky messages claiming you owe money, just hit the pause button and deny, deny, deny!

How to Stay Safe

So, what should you do if you receive one of these dubious texts? First and foremost, ignore it. Don’t respond, and definitely don’t click on any links that may pop up in those shady messages. If you’re curious about any toll charges, you can always reach out to the Southern Connector directly by dialing 864-537-2150. Better safe than sorry!

Law Enforcement Impersonation Scams

Greenville County Sheriff’s Office has reported numerous calls from residents about another scam that’s equally concerning. This one involves impersonators pretending to be law enforcement officials.

BBB Alerts Residents

Better Business Bureau has also been on high alert about various reports from residents dealing with scams related to unpaid toll road fees. Scammers have been going so far as to pretend to represent agencies like Florida SunPass, demanding immediate payment and threatening hefty fines of fifty dollars or more!

What You Can Do

Better Business Bureau or file a complaint on the FBI’s Internet crimes website. Remember, you are not alone, and there’s no need to feel ashamed; scams are becoming more sophisticated every day!

In Closing

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Additional Resources

• Fox Carolina: SC Toll Road Debt Scam
• ABC Columbia: Greenville Deputies Scam Warning
• WSPA: New Toll Road Scam Warning
• Greenville Online: Avoiding Scams After Tropical Storm Helene
• Statesman: Racist Texts Among Texas Students

Author: HERE Greenwood