Wisconsin Officials Warn Of Easy-To-Fall-For Scam Being Reported

Add this to the list of scams Wisconsin residents now need to be on the lookout for.

A few days ago, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation posted a warning on their social media accounts about a scam that has been targeting residents this spring.

Here's what to know and how to protect yourself.

What is this new scam targeting Wisconsinites?

Much like a scam that has been reported this spring across Minnesota, Wisconsin residents have started receiving text messages claiming you have an outstanding road toll.

Depending on where you live and travel in Wisconsin, it might be easy to believe you somehow missed a toll, and you could find yourself believing you owe some money.

READ MORE: Attention iPhone users, this new scammer tactic is targeting you

Some of the text messages (like the one below) specifically refer to the brand E-Z Pass, which operates in several states around the country. While E-Z Pass is used in Minnesota and Illinois, it is not used in Wisconsin, according to the company's website.

Even then, if you've traveled in Minnesota or Illinois, it's possible to think you missed a toll.

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Plus, as the Wisconsin Department of Transportation points out, some texts include messaging that makes it seem like they are coming from the DMV or some other entity, so it isn't just fraudsters pretending to be from E-Z Pass.

What should I do if I get one of these scam toll text messages?

As the Wisconsin DOT points out, the DMV (or other agencies) won't text you to demand payment. This is an immediate red flag of a potential scam.

You'll also notice in the screenshot of the text message above that there is some somewhat "official-looking" verbiage about "Replying Y" and some other instructions. This is a new tactic being used by scammers to get around safety measures iPhones now have built into them to protect against scam links sent by people you don't know.

If you get one of these messages, WisDOT says you should never click on the link. The option to report the text as a scam is available on iPhones. Doing this is a quick and easy way to help protect yourself and others.

If that isn't an option, simply delete the message.

If you truly believe you have an outstanding toll, don't use the link or contact information in the text message. Find verifiable contact information for the agency reaching out to you independently, and inquire with a representative.

This way, you can sidestep the potential scammers and get a trusted answer if you are concerned you might actually have an outstanding bill.