Go phish! Scammers target FasTrak system users with threatening texts

A phishing text message warning of a legal threat and financial penalties has been hitting users and even non-drivers of Los Angeles County’s Metro ExpressLanes. The spam has led to a flood of complaints from Metro ExpressLanes users, who have been calling the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority seeking verification and advice, Metro authorities have noted. “Metro ExpressLanes reminds customers that we never send text messages asking for sensitive information or requesting payment,” a statement from Metro read. “If a text message claims to be from Metro ExpressLanes regarding tolls or violations, do not respond to the message, do not use any links in the message, and do not use any contact information provided in the message.” The Federal Trade Commission classifies phishing as a type of scam in which targeted users receive a communication such as an email or text message that appears to be from a well-known source, such as a company or agency.