Don’t Fall for This Michigan Toll Road Text Scam

Michigan is among the few states that have no toll roads within its borders, a feature many Michiganders take for granted. Until they decide to head south into Ohio and Indiana, and suddenly, they're having to pay to drive on the Ohio Turnpike or the East-West Road. Imagine having to pay to drive on I-94 - how would you react?

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Thankfully, this isn't something we need to think about. However, that isn't stopping a string of scams targeting Michiganders via text, claiming they have outstanding tolls to pay. The scams have become so prominent that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is making a public statement to dissuade people from being tricked.

Here's what to look for.

Michigan Toll Road Scam

Back in April, someone I know received a message from someone posing as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), claiming that they had an outstanding balance with EZ-Pass Lane. This is an electronic toll collection service used in several Midwest states, including Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio (and, strangely, a single location in Michigan, according to this map). If you've traveled through these states, you've likely seen EZ-Pass offered.

The message is usually sent from a random email address or phone number not associated with EZ-Pass and supplies a link that appears legitimate. If you visit this link, it offers the option to enter your card information to pay off your "fine," but it's a scam that will steal your card details and potentially drain your account. Thankfully, though my friend initially fell for the scam, they managed to close their accounts before anything was taken.

State Transportation Director Bradley C. stated in the above video:

"Please be assured this is a scam and the texts are not coming from MDOT or another State of Michigan agency," said Wieferich. "MDOT does not operate any toll roads. Some state-owned bridges are tolled but not through license plate capture. You would not receive a bill through text or email."

Tips to Protect Yourself From Text Scams

For Memorial Day, MDOT wisely updated all their billboards around Michigan to inform drivers who may be going or returning to states with Toll Roads to "Be Aware, Toll Texts Are Scams". According to a press release, over a million Michiganders traveled over Memorial Day weekend.

Since these scams have been ongoing since the beginning of April, it is best to stay vigilant. If you get one of these messages, DO NOT CLICK THE LINK. Contact the DMV or EZ-Pass before making any payments.

What Are The Odds Of Michigan Getting Toll Roads?

The debate between whether Michigan should or shouldn't have tolls is one that dates back years ago, but was seriously investigated as recently as 2023. The 2023 study concluded that over $8.5 billion could be generated from 14 of 31 major highways in Michigan between 2026 to 2031.

READ MORE: Top 10 Most Hated Intersections in Grand Rapids

While these funds would benefit road construction, it may be difficult to convince drivers to get on board with paying to drive roads they've previously never had to pay for.