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Seattle Drivers Warned of Toll Text Scam Prompting 911 Calls
Scammers impersonating WSDOT are sending urgent texts demanding payment, alarming some recipients enough to contact emergency services.
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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State troopers and transportation officials in Washington have issued a warning to Seattle-area drivers about a wave of scam text messages claiming recipients owe unpaid tolls and threatening possible arrest if they don't click a link to pay. The texts, which falsely claim to be from the Washington State Department of Transportation's tolling program, have prompted several 911 calls from alarmed recipients.
Why it matters
This scam is part of a nationwide trend of "smishing" or phishing by SMS, where scammers impersonate government agencies and businesses to trick people into providing money or personal information. The tactic often relies on small-dollar amounts and intimidating language to pressure quick decisions, and can pull emergency services into the fray when recipients are sufficiently alarmed.
The details
The Washington State Patrol's public information office says it has received "several 911 calls" from people who got the fraudulent texts, which warn of unpaid toll fees and threaten possible arrest. WSDOT has shared the patrol's warning on social media, urging drivers not to click any links in the messages and to instead verify any toll notices through official channels like their MyGoodToGo account or by mail.
- On Friday, February 7, 2026, state troopers and transportation officials issued the warning about the scam text messages.
The players
Washington State Patrol
The state law enforcement agency that received several 911 calls from alarmed recipients of the scam texts.
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)
The state transportation agency whose tolling program is being impersonated by the scammers sending the fraudulent text messages.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
If a driver clicks a suspicious link or pays a bogus toll bill, they should contact their bank or card issuer immediately to report fraud and ask about reversing any charges. They should also file reports with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Better Business Bureau to help track the scam and warn other drivers.
The takeaway
This scam highlights the growing problem of "smishing" or phishing by SMS, where scammers impersonate government agencies and businesses to trick people into providing money or personal information. Drivers should be vigilant about verifying any toll notices through official channels rather than clicking links in unexpected text messages, in order to avoid falling victim to this type of fraud.
