Whether it’s a text about a fake delivery, taxes or some random prize, many New Yorkers have received scam texts. Now, the state Thruway Authority is warning that scammers are targeting E-Z Pass customers by pretending to collect tolls through text messages.

“On Sunday morning, I got a text that came in that said I was $60 behind on my payments, and that I needed to make good on it and to click on the link at the bottom, which I knew better to do," said David Ketterer, a Cherryplain resident. "I was actually $31 ahead."

It's the newest scam: people sending text messages to others, telling them to pay off their E-Z Pass outstanding balance to avoid fees.

“I knew I had not used my E-Z Pass since last June, and so there wasn’t anything. And I updated the credit card link since then, because I had a compromised credit card," he said. "I said, 'no, this is fishy. This is just fishy.' "

Others, however, might not spot a scam that quickly. According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans lost almost $330 million through text message scams in 2022.

“What I’m more afraid of is the people who don’t think twice. They’ll click on that link," Ketterer said. "Matter of fact, a friend of mine's friend clicked on it and gave them information.”

To avoid falling for any type of scam, pay attention to your accounts. 

“Keep track of everything," said Ketterer. "I keep track of my E-Z Pass and how much is on it. I hadn’t used it, like I said, since June, but I updated a credit card since then. Just stay on top of things.”