KTA warning residents of 'smishing' text message-based scam

WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - The Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) is warning drivers of a text messaged-based scam called 'smishing.'

The KTA was alerted late Friday of the scam targeting residents with text messages requesting personal financial information to settle outstanding toll amounts. The KTA does not send text messages for toll payment.

The texts, purported to be from “Kansas Toll Services”, are requesting payment for unpaid tolls with an urgent request to respond to avoid a late fee. The targeted phone numbers seem to be chosen at random, and are not uniquely associated with a toll account or use of toll roads.

Similar scams have been reported by toll agencies across the country since early April, causing the FBI to issue a public service announcement about the fraudulent SMS texting campaign.

Customers who receive an unsolicited text, suggesting it is from the KTA or another toll agency, should not click the link. A complaint can be filed with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.