If you have crossed a toll bridge recently because free bridges were not open, you could fall for a nationwide scam that is now targeting RiverLink users in Kentucky and Indiana.
With the 2nd Street Bridge recently closed for repairs for weeks, and then shut down again for Thunder Over Louisville, more people than usual have used the toll bridges to get across Kentuckiana. While RiverLink balances may be higher, some of the fees and notifications sent out are fake.
It is no longer just mounting fees, long hold time or the lines at the RiverLink office. Now, the FBI and Riverlink are warning drivers about a new phishing scam that is traveling across the country.
Drivers around the nation have gotten text messages claiming to be from tolling agencies, like RiverLink, and falsely state a balance is overdue. The text messages also include a fake link to pay the bill.
The FBI said it has received more than 2,000 complaints about the fakes texts since early March. Investigators said it has made its way to RiverLink customers. Investigators said Wednesday the scam hit Kentuckiana.
Tim Beam, the chief division counsel for the FBI’s Louisville office, said scammers are working hard to appear legitimate.
The fraudulent websites are constantly changing to mirror legitimate toll service companies, so not everyone will receive the same text.
The FBI has released a public service announcement warning drivers about the scam.
RiverLink has started notifying people through its website, and the FBI’s PSA recommends taking the following steps if you receive a fake text:
File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center and be sure to include the phone number from where the text originated and the website listed in the text.
Check your account using the RiverLink’s legitimate website.
Notify RiverLink that you’ve received the text.
Delete any smishing texts received.
If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.
Source: WDRB
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