KTA warns customers of possible scam text messages

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) is alerting customers of possible scams that could come in the form of text messages.

On Tuesday, Sept. 17 the KTA was notified of text message-based scams that use DriveKS and the new Kansas toll payment system, according to a news release from KTA. These type of scams are known as smishing. These text messages include a photo with the DriveKS logo, and says outstanding balances need to be paid to avoid additional fees.

KTA is urging customers to be aware of the following:

• Do not click links or use the URL provided in unsolicited text messages.
• KTA does not send unsolicited text messages. All text messages require customer sign-up through their DriveKS account or for roadway incident alerts.
• KTA does not charge fees such as those mentioned in the text messages.
• KTA does not send text messages for toll payment.

According to the news release, targeted phone numbers are seemingly chosen at random and are not uniquely associated with a toll account or toll road usage. Smishing and other kinds of scams have been reported by toll agencies across the United States since April, 2024. These nationwide scams have caused the FBI to issue a public service announcement about the fraudulent SMS texting campaign.

If you have received an unsolicited text suggesting it is from the KTA or another toll agency, do not click the link. The KTA encourages customers to file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

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