Kentucky E-ZPass scams target drivers who cross the Abraham Lincoln Bridge, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge, or the Lewis and Clark Bridge. These scams use fake text messages, phishing emails, and fraudulent phone calls to steal credit card numbers and personal data. Scammers create a sense of urgency about unpaid tolls, hoping drivers will click a malicious link or call a fake number before they have time to think.
Scam reports in Kentucky rose sharply during 2026 and continue to climb in 2026. The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center logged thousands of complaints about toll-related smishing texts in a single year. The Federal Trade Commission also tracks these scams through its Consumer Sentinel Network. Both agencies warn that the problem affects drivers across the country, not just one state.
What Kentucky E-ZPass Scams Look Like in 2026
Scammers change their methods each year. The message wording shifts. The fake websites get new designs. The phone numbers rotate. But the core tricks stay the same. Here is what drivers in Kentucky see most often in 2026.
The Fake E-ZPass Text Message Scam
A text arrives on your phone. It claims to come from E-ZPass or RiverLink. The message says you have an unpaid toll. It gives a deadline, often 24 or 48 hours. It warns of extra fees or legal action. A link appears at the bottom, something like ezpass-pay.com or riverlink-bill.net.
Clicking the link opens a fake website. The site looks like a real toll portal. It asks for your license plate number, credit card details, and personal data. Once you submit the form, the scammer takes your information. They may charge your card, sell your data, or use it for identity theft.
These texts often come from short codes or regular 10-digit numbers. Some arrive at odd hours. Others reference a specific bridge or toll amount to seem real. The scam works because the text feels official and creates fear about penalties.
The Phishing Email Scam
Emails work the same way as texts, but they allow for more detail. A fake E-ZPass email might include a PDF invoice. It might show your name, a fake account number, and a due date. The design uses official colors and logos copied from the real E-ZPass website.
These emails often go to spam folders, but many slip through. They may use subject lines like Final Notice: Unpaid Toll or Action Required: Account Suspension. The links in the email lead to the same fake payment sites used in text scams.
Some phishing emails carry malware in attachments. Opening a file can install software on your computer. This software tracks keystrokes, steals passwords, or locks your files for ransom. Never open an attachment from a sender you do not know.
The Robocall Scam
Your phone rings. A recorded voice claims to be from E-ZPass customer service. The message says you owe a toll. It gives you a phone number to call or asks you to press a button to speak with an agent. These robocalls flood phone lines across the country.
Calling back connects you to a scammer. They will ask for payment through unusual methods. They may demand gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Real toll agencies never ask for these payment types. They also do not threaten arrest or license suspension over the phone.
Some robocalls use voice cloning technology. A scammer might claim to be a law enforcement officer or a court official. They reference real-sounding case numbers and badge numbers. This adds pressure and makes the call feel more real.
The Fake Invoice by Mail
Paper mail still works for some scams. A fake invoice arrives in your mailbox. It uses the RiverLink or E-ZPass logo. It shows a toll amount plus a large service fee. The invoice comes from a third-party processor with a name like Toll Payment Services or National Toll Collection.
These mail scams target people who pay tolls by plate. The scammer buys old data lists, then sends fake bills hoping someone will pay without checking. The fees are often much higher than the actual toll. Some invoices claim you owe $50 for a $3 toll crossing.
Real toll invoices come from official agencies. They include the correct agency name, a clear toll breakdown, and a way to verify the charge through an official website. Any invoice that asks for payment to a P.O. Box or a wire transfer is a scam.
The Unofficial Website Scam
Search engines like Google sometimes show paid ads for fake toll sites. A driver searches Pay E-ZPass toll Kentucky and clicks the top result. The site looks professional, but it charges a convenience fee of $5 to $10 to process a payment. The fee goes to the scammer, not to E-ZPass.
Some fake sites collect payment information without ever paying your toll. New Hampshire Customer Service Information The site promises to forward your payment to E-ZPass, but it keeps the money and your data. You end up with an unpaid toll plus stolen card information.
Always type the official website address yourself. The real Kentucky E-ZPass site is www.e-zpassky.com. Bookmark it on your phone and computer. Never click a search engine ad for toll payment.
How Kentucky E-ZPass Scams Actually Work
Scammers follow a clear process. They buy or steal contact information. They send thousands of messages at once. They build fake websites that look like the real thing. When someone pays or enters data, they capture the information and use it for profit.
How Scammers Get Your Phone Number
Your phone number can come from many places. Data brokers collect phone numbers from public records, app signups, and website forms. Scammers buy these lists in bulk for very low prices. A list of 10,000 phone numbers might cost only a few dollars.
Some scammers guess numbers using random number generators. NJ Customer Service Guide They send texts to every possible number in a specific area code. If you have a Kentucky area code (502, 270, 606, or 859), you are more likely to receive these messages.
Data breaches also expose phone numbers. If you signed up for a service that got hacked, your phone number may now sit in a scammer’s database. There is no way to fully prevent this, but you can spot scams faster by knowing the signs.
How Scammers Build Fake Websites
Fake toll sites are easy to create. A scammer copies the design from the real E-ZPass website. They buy a domain name that looks similar, like ezpassky-bill.com or riverlink-payment.net. They set up the site in a few hours using free website builders.
The fake site asks for credit card numbers, CVV codes, expiration dates, and billing addresses. Some sites also ask for Social Security numbers or dates of birth. This extra data lets the scammer commit identity theft, not just credit card fraud.
These sites often stay online for only a few days. Once users report them, the hosting company takes them down. The scammer then moves to a new domain and starts over. This cat-and-mouse game makes it hard to stop the problem at the source.
What Happens to Your Stolen Data
Stolen credit card numbers sell for a few dollars each on the dark web. Identity packages with a name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth sell for much more. Scammers may use the data themselves or sell it to other criminals.
A scammer with your credit card info may make small test charges first. They check to see if the card works. If it does, they make larger purchases. They may also open new accounts in your name using the personal data you provided.
Recovering from identity theft takes months. You must contact credit bureaus, banks, and creditors. You may need to freeze your credit and file police reports. Avoiding the scam in the first place saves you from all this trouble.
Red Flags of a Kentucky E-ZPass Scam
Every scam leaves clues. Learning these red flags helps you spot a fake message in seconds. The more red flags you see, the more certain the message is a scam.
- Unsolicited contact: You receive a text or email about a toll you do not remember owing. Real agencies only contact you about unpaid tolls if you have an account with an unpaid balance.
- Urgent deadlines: The message gives you 24 to 48 hours to pay. Scammers use time pressure to stop you from thinking. Real agencies allow normal payment windows.
- Unusual payment methods: The message asks for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. These payment types are nearly impossible to trace or reverse.
- Generic greetings: The message says Dear Customer or Dear Driver instead of your name. Real account notices include your name and account number.
- Spelling and grammar errors: Messages contain typos, odd phrasing, or wrong word usage. You have a overfee or RiverLinks are common errors in scam texts.
- Suspicious links: The URL does not match the official website. Hover over the link to see the real address. Ezpass-bill.net is not the same as e-zpassky.com.
- Threats of severe penalties: The message threatens license suspension, arrest, or vehicle registration cancellation for a single unpaid toll. Real agencies follow a legal process that takes weeks.
- Unknown phone numbers: The text comes from a number you do not recognize, or a short code you never signed up for. Real alerts come from numbers listed on the official E-ZPass site.
RiverLink Scams vs. E-ZPass Scams: Key Differences
RiverLink and E-ZPass Kentucky work together, but they are not the same thing. RiverLink is the tolling system for the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges. E-ZPass Kentucky is the transponder program that works with RiverLink and other toll roads in 17 states.
Scammers exploit this confusion. They send messages claiming Ohio Fare Calculator Information to be from RiverLink, E-ZPass, or both. Some messages mix the two names, which is a sign of a scam. Real agencies keep their branding separate and consistent.
RiverLink manages the toll billing for drivers without transponders. If you cross a Louisville bridge without an E-ZPass, RiverLink sends an invoice using your license plate. These invoices come by mail, not by text. They include a specific trip date, bridge name, and toll amount.
E-ZPass Kentucky sends low-balance alerts by text or email to account holders who opt in. These alerts never include a payment link. They simply tell you to add funds to your account. The message may also include a phone number for customer service, but you should verify the number on the official site before calling.
Knowing the difference between these two systems helps you judge a message. If you have an E-ZPass transponder, you will never get a Pay your toll now text. If you do not have a transponder, you will get a mail invoice, not a text message with a link.
How to Verify a Real E-ZPass or RiverLink Notice
Before you pay any toll notice, take time to verify it. Scammers count on panic. A few minutes of checking can save you hundreds of dollars and hours of trouble.
Check the Website Address
Real E-ZPass Kentucky notices reference www.e-zpassky.com. Real RiverLink notices reference www.riverlink.com. Any other URL is a scam. Look at the exact spelling, not just the general look. Ezpassky.com without the hyphen is a fake site. Riverlinkky.com is a fake site.
Scammers register domain names that look similar to the real ones. They add extra words, swap letters, or change the domain extension. .net instead of .com is a common trick. .org or .info versions are also often fake.
Log In to Your Account Directly
Open a new browser window and type the official E-ZPass or RiverLink address yourself. Do not click any link in the suspicious message. Log in to your account and check for unpaid tolls or low balance alerts.
If you do not have an account, the site still has tools to check for tolls by license plate. Use the official site’s search feature to see if you actually owe a toll. If the site shows no toll due, the message was a scam.
Call the Official Customer Service Number
Find the customer service number on the official website, not in the suspicious message. The real E-ZPass Kentucky customer service number is 1-800-333-6946. Call this number and ask if the notice is real. The agent can check your account or your plate status.
Never call a phone number from a suspicious text or email. Scammers set up fake call centers with professional-sounding menus. The agents sound helpful, but they are working to steal your money.
Check for Official Letterhead and Contact Info
Real mail invoices include a return address, an official agency name, and a customer service number. They may also include a barcode or QR code for payment. Compare the notice to past invoices or to examples on the official website.
Real invoices never demand payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. They accept credit cards, checks, and cash. They also allow you to dispute a charge before paying.
What to Do If You Receive a Kentucky E-ZPass Scam Text
Getting a scam text is stressful, but the right response is simple. Follow these steps to protect yourself and help stop the scam.
Step 1: Do Not Click Any Link
Links in scam texts may install malware on your phone. They may also lead to fake sites that steal your data. Even if the link looks real, do not tap it. The safest move is to ignore the link entirely.
If you already clicked the link, do not enter any information on the site. Close the browser window right away. Then follow the steps in the next section to secure your device and accounts.
Step 2: Do Not Reply to the Text
Replying tells the scammer your number is active. They may sell your number to other scammers or target you with more messages. Even a STOP reply can confirm your number is in use.
The only safe response is no response. Delete the text after reporting it. Block the number to prevent future messages from the same sender.
Step 3: Forward the Text to 7726
In the United States, you can report spam texts by forwarding them to 7726 (which spells SPAM on a phone keypad). Your carrier uses these reports to identify and block scam numbers. This step takes only a few seconds and helps protect other drivers.
After forwarding, delete the message. Do not keep it in your inbox, where you might click it later by accident.
Step 4: Report the Scam to the FTC
File a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov. The FTC collects scam reports and shares them with law enforcement. Your report helps build cases against scam operations and warns other consumers.
Include as much detail as possible. Save a screenshot of the text before you delete it. Note the phone number, the date, and the link in the message. This data helps investigators track the scammers.
Step 5: Report the Scam to the FBI IC3
The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center accepts reports at ic3.gov. Smishing texts fall under cybercrime. The IC3 works with field offices to investigate large-scale scam operations.
Reporting to IC3 is especially important for large losses. If you lost money to the scam, IC3 can coordinate with local FBI offices and other agencies to pursue the criminals.
Step 6: Block the Sender
Block the phone number on your device. This stops future messages from the same number. On iPhone, tap the number in the message thread, then tap Block this Caller. On Android, tap the three-dot menu and select Block number.
Blocking does not stop all scam texts, because scammers use many different numbers. But it does reduce the volume of messages you receive over time.
What to Do If You Clicked the Link or Entered Information
Clicking a scam link is not the end of the world. Quick action can limit the damage. Follow these steps right away to protect your finances and identity.
Disconnect from the Internet
Turn off your phone’s Wi-Fi and mobile data. This stops the malicious site from sending more data to your device. On most phones, you can swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the airplane mode icon.
If you were on a computer, disconnect from Wi-Fi and unplug any ethernet cable. The goal is to stop any active data transfer between your device and the scammer’s server.
Clear Your Browser History and Cache
Open your browser settings and clear the cache, cookies, and history. This removes any malicious files the site may have placed on your device. It also removes any login information you may have entered.
On iPhone, go to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data. On Android, open Chrome, tap the three-dot menu, and select Clear browsing data.
Run a Security Scan
Use a trusted antivirus app to scan your phone or computer. Many security apps can detect malware from malicious sites. Look for apps from well-known companies like Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, or Malwarebytes.
On iPhone, the built-in security features block most malware. On Android, you may need to install a security app for full protection. Run a full scan and follow any recommendations the app provides.
Change Your Passwords
If you entered a password on the fake site, change that password right away. Use a strong, unique password that you do not use on other accounts. If you used the same password elsewhere, change those passwords too.
Start with your most important accounts: email, banking, and E-ZPass. Then move to shopping, social media, and other accounts. A password manager helps you create and store strong passwords for every account.
Monitor Your Financial Accounts
Check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges. Look for small test charges, which scammers make to see if a card works. If you see any charge you did not make, contact your bank or card issuer right away.
Set up transaction alerts on your accounts. Most banks let you receive a text or email for every purchase over a certain amount. This helps you spot fraud early.
Place a Fraud Alert or Credit Freeze
Contact one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit file. The bureau you contact must notify the other two. A fraud alert warns lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before issuing credit.
A credit freeze is stronger. It blocks new credit applications entirely until you lift the freeze. Freezes are free in the United States and do not affect your credit score. You can lift the freeze temporarily when you need to apply for credit.
File a Police Report
For large losses or identity theft, file a police report in your local jurisdiction. The report creates an official record of the crime. Banks, credit bureaus, and other agencies may require a police report to help you recover from the fraud.
Bring any evidence you have, including screenshots of the scam text, the fake website, and any financial losses. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
How to Report Kentucky E-ZPass Scams
Reporting scams helps everyone. Your report warns other drivers, supports investigations, and may help shut down scam operations. Here is where to send your reports.
Report to the Federal Trade Commission
The FTC runs reportfraud.ftc.gov, the main U.S. government site for reporting scams. You can file online in minutes. The FTC uses your report to track scam trends and bring cases against scammers.
Select the category that best fits your situation. For toll scams, choose Imposter Scams or Online Shopping and Negative Reviews, depending on the details. The FTC may follow up with you for more information.
Report to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
The FBI IC3 accepts reports at ic3.gov. The IC3 focuses on internet crimes, including smishing, phishing, and identity theft. Your report adds to a national database that FBI agents use to identify patterns and build cases.
Include as much detail as possible. Screenshots, email headers, and URLs all help. The IC3 forwards reports to local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies as needed.
Report to Your Phone Carrier
Forward the scam text to 7726 (SPAM). AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and other carriers all support this reporting system. The carriers use the data to block scam numbers and warn other customers.
You can also contact your carrier’s customer service to report persistent scam texts. They may be able to block the numbers at the network level or add extra spam protection to your account.
Report to E-ZPass Kentucky
Forward scam messages to E-ZPass Kentucky through their official website contact form. The agency tracks scam reports and may issue public warnings when new scams appear. They can also confirm whether a message you received is real.
Visit the official site to find the current contact information. Avoid any contact information from the suspicious message itself.
Report to the Better Business Bureau
The BBB Scam Tracker at bbb.org/scamtracker collects consumer reports about scams. Your report helps other consumers learn about active scams. The BBB also works with businesses to address fraud.
BBB reports are public. They appear in search results when people research a phone number, email address, or company name. This helps warn others before they fall for the same scam.
How to Protect Yourself from Future Kentucky E-ZPass Scams
Prevention is the best defense. These habits make you a much harder target for scammers and help you spot scams faster.
Use the Official Website Only
Bookmark www.e-zpassky.com on your phone and computer. Only use this site to check your account, pay tolls, or update your information. Never trust a link from a text, email, or search engine ad.
The official site lets you check your balance, view trip history, and update your vehicle list. It also has a customer service phone number you can call with questions.
Sign Up for Account Alerts
Log in to your E-ZPass account and turn on notifications. The agency can send you emails or texts about low balances, automatic payments, and account changes. These alerts help you know when something is wrong with your account.
Be aware of which alerts you signed up for. If you get a text claiming to be from E-ZPass but you never signed up for text alerts, that message is a scam.
Keep Your Contact Information Current
Update your phone number, email address, and mailing address in your E-ZPass account. This ensures you receive real notices and not scam messages that target outdated contact info.
If you change phone numbers or emails, update your E-ZPass account right away. Old contact information may end up in data breaches or scam databases.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Create a strong password for your E-ZPass account. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Do not reuse passwords from other accounts. A password manager helps you create and store unique passwords for every account.
Turn on two-factor authentication if E-ZPass offers it. This adds a second step to the login process, like a code sent to your phone. It makes it much harder for scammers to access your account even if they get your password.
Set Up Account Notifications with Your Bank
Ask your bank to send you a text or email for every transaction. This way, you spot unauthorized charges right away. You can also set spending limits and block certain types of transactions.
Many credit cards also offer virtual card numbers for online purchases. These are temporary numbers that link to your real account. If a scammer steals the virtual number, they cannot use it again.
Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Messages
Any message that claims you owe money should be checked, even if it looks real. Scammers count on people acting without thinking. A few seconds of caution can save you hundreds of dollars.
Real agencies do not demand immediate payment by text. They allow normal payment windows and offer multiple ways to pay. If a message creates extreme urgency, it is almost certainly a scam.
Setting Up Your E-ZPass Kentucky Account Safely
An E-ZPass Kentucky account is your best protection against toll scams. With a transponder, you do not receive toll bills by mail or text. Your tolls are deducted automatically from your prepaid balance.
Getting a Transponder
You can order a transponder through the official E-ZPass Kentucky website. You may also pick one up at a customer service center. There are two main types:
- Sticker transponder: This is a small adhesive tag that sticks to your windshield. It is free and works for one specific vehicle. It is the cheapest option for a single daily driver.
- Hard-case transponder: This is a portable device that moves between vehicles. It costs a small fee but works in any car on your account. It is a good choice if you drive multiple vehicles.
Choose the option that fits your driving habits. Both types work the same way at toll plazas.
Adding Money to Your Account
E-ZPass accounts are prepaid. You add money to your account before you use the toll roads. You can set up auto-replenishment so your account refills automatically when the balance gets low.
Auto-replenishment uses a credit card or bank account on file. You choose a minimum balance and a refill amount. When your balance hits the minimum, E-ZPass charges your payment method and adds the refill amount to your account.
Adding Vehicles to Your Account
List every vehicle you drive on your E-ZPass account. Include daily drivers, family vehicles, and even rental cars you use often. If you forget to add a vehicle, the toll system may not match your plate to your transponder, and you could get a Pay-by-Plate bill.
You can add or remove vehicles through your online account at any time. Keep your vehicle list current to avoid billing problems.
Checking Your Balance Regularly
Log in to your E-ZPass account every month or so. Check your balance, your recent trips, and your vehicle list. This helps you catch any errors or unauthorized account changes quickly.
If you see a trip you do not recognize, contact E-ZPass customer service right away. The agency can investigate and correct any billing errors.
Targets of Kentucky E-ZPass Scams
Scammers cast a wide net, but some groups get targeted more than others. Knowing who scammers focus on helps you stay alert.
Out-of-State Drivers
Drivers passing through Kentucky on I-65, I-71, or I-75 often do not know the local toll system. They may not know whether they crossed a toll bridge. Scammers target these drivers because they are more likely to believe a toll notice is real.
If you travel through Kentucky, learn the toll locations before your trip. The only toll roads in Kentucky are the three Louisville bridges. If you did not cross those bridges, you do not owe a Kentucky toll.
Younger Drivers
People in their 20s and 30s grew up with mobile payment apps. They are used to paying bills through their phones. This makes them more likely to click a link in a text and pay a toll without questioning it.
Younger drivers should know that real toll agencies do not send payment links by text. NY App Help Any message asking for a toll payment through a link is a scam, no matter how real it looks.
Older Drivers
Older adults may be less familiar with digital scams. They may also worry more about legal threats like license suspension. Scammers target this group with aggressive language and urgent deadlines.
Family members can help by talking to older relatives about common scams. Make sure they know the official E-ZPass contact information and have it saved in their phones.
Frequent Crossers
People who cross the Louisville bridges every day for work get many toll notices over time. This makes them more likely to assume a new notice is real. Scammers target these drivers because the message seems normal.
Even if you cross toll bridges often, always verify a notice before paying. Check your E-ZPass account or call the official customer service number.
Why Scammers Target Kentucky Drivers
Kentucky has unique features that make it a target for toll scams. These factors create opportunities for scammers to trick drivers.
The Louisville Bridge System
Three major bridges connect Louisville, Kentucky, and Southern Indiana. Many drivers cross these bridges daily for work, school, or shopping. The high traffic volume means many potential targets for scams.
Out-of-state drivers also use these bridges as part of longer trips. They may not know the toll rates or the billing system, making them easier to trick.
Cross-State Confusion
The bridges connect two states with different toll policies. Drivers may be confused about which state they owe a toll to. Scammers exploit this confusion by referencing both Kentucky and Indiana in their messages.
Real toll notices clearly state which agency is billing you. They also include details about the specific bridge and trip. If a message is vague about the location, it is probably a scam.
RiverLink Name Confusion
Many drivers do not know what RiverLink is. They may receive a message about RiverLink and assume it is a scam. But other drivers may assume it is a real service and pay without checking. Scammers take advantage of this confusion.
RiverLink is the real toll agency for the Louisville bridges. Knowing this helps you judge whether a message is real. Real RiverLink notices include your license plate and a specific trip date.
Recent Scam Wave
Toll scams spiked across the United States in 2026 and 2026. Kentucky saw its share of these messages. The FBI issued warnings about the wave of smishing texts targeting drivers nationwide.
Scammers often focus on states with active toll systems. The more toll roadsa state has, the more likely drivers are to believe a toll notice is real. Kentucky’s bridges make it a target.
Real Examples of Kentucky E-ZPass Scam Texts
Seeing real examples helps you recognize scams. These are actual messages reported by Kentucky drivers in 2026 and 2026.
Example 1: The Urgent Demand
[RiverLink] You have a unpaid toll of $6.99 on your record. To avoid additional fees of $50.00, please settle within 24 hours: https://riverlink-pay.net/bill
This message creates urgency with a 24-hour deadline. The link uses riverlink-pay.net instead of the real riverlink.com. The grammar has errors (a unpaid instead of an unpaid). These are clear signs of a scam.
Example 2: The Account Suspension Threat
E-ZPass KY Alert: Your account is past due. Continued non-payment will result in suspension of your vehicle registration. Pay now: https://ezpassky-bill.com/pay
This message threatens registration suspension, a common scam tactic. Real E-ZPass does not suspend vehicle registration for a single unpaid toll. The link ezpassky-bill.com is not the official site.
Example 3: The Final Notice
Final Notice: Unpaid toll detected for plate [ABC123] on 10/15/2026. Amount due: $4.50 + $30 service fee. Settle immediately: https://riverlinks-payment.com
This message includes a plate number and a specific date to look real. But the fee is much higher than the actual toll. The extra $30 service fee is a sign of a scam. The link adds an s to riverlink, which is a fake domain.
Example 4: The Friendly Reminder
Hi! This is a reminder from E-ZPass Kentucky. You have a small unpaid balance. Click here to view: https://ezpass-ky.net/account
This message uses a casual tone to seem friendly. But E-ZPass does not send Hi! messages. The link ezpass-ky.net is not the official site. The lack of specific toll details is a red flag.
How Scammers Use the Data They Collect
Stolen data is valuable. Scammers use it for many types of fraud, not just toll payments. Knowing what they do with your data helps you understand why protection matters.
Credit Card Fraud
The most direct use of stolen card numbers is making purchases. Scammers may buy gift cards, electronics, or other items they can resell. They often make small test charges first to confirm the card works.
If you entered your card information on a fake site, contact your card issuer right away. Ask them to block the card and issue a new one. This prevents further charges.
Identity Theft
Personal information like your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number can be used to open new accounts in your name. Scammers may apply for credit cards, loans, or even government benefits using your identity.
Identity theft can take years to resolve. Place a credit freeze as soon as possible if you entered sensitive information on a fake site. This stops new accounts from being opened in your name.
Selling Data to Other Criminals
Scammers often sell stolen data to other criminals. Your information may end up in multiple databases. This is why victims of one scam often get targeted again later.
After a data exposure, you may see more scam attempts across all your accounts. Stay alert and use extra caution with any unsolicited messages for the next several months.
Account Takeover
If you used the same password on the fake site that you use elsewhere, scammers may try to log in to your other accounts. They use automated tools to test stolen passwords on popular sites.
Always use unique passwords for important accounts. A password manager makes this easy by generating and storing strong passwords for every site.
Legal Actions Against Toll Scammers
Law enforcement agencies are cracking down on toll scams. Several major operations have been shut down in recent years. These actions send a message to scammers and help protect consumers.
FTC Enforcement
The Federal Trade Commission has brought cases against multiple scam operations. In 2026, the FTC shut down a network that sent millions of toll smishing texts. The agency also obtained judgments that returned money to victims.
The FTC works with state attorneys general and other agencies to stop scams. Consumer protection is a major focus of the agency, and toll scams fall squarely within its mission.
FBI Investigations
The FBI has investigated toll scam operations that span multiple countries. Many scams originate overseas, which makes them harder to prosecute. The FBI works with international law enforcement partners to identify and arrest suspects.
In some cases, the FBI has seized domains used for toll scams. This removes the fake websites from the internet and stops the scam, at least temporarily.
State Actions
State attorneys general have also taken action against toll scammers. Some states have passed laws specifically targeting smishing and phishing. These laws add extra penalties for using electronic communication to commit fraud.
Kentucky’s attorney general can take action against scammers who target Kentucky residents. The state also educates consumers about common scams through public awareness campaigns.
Industry Response
Phone carriers have improved their spam detection systems. Many now flag suspected scam texts automatically. Banks have also added security features to detect and block fraudulent transactions.
The tolling industry has worked together to share information about active scams. When a new scam appears, agencies can issue warnings quickly to help drivers stay safe.
E-ZPass Kentucky Official Contact Information
Keep this contact information handy. Use it to verify any suspicious messages or to ask questions about your account.
Official Website: www.e-zpassky.com
Customer Service Phone: 1-800-333-6946
Customer Service Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Eastern Time. Saturday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM Eastern Time. Closed on Sundays and major holidays.
Mailing Address: E-ZPass Kentucky, P.O. Box 727, Louisville, KY 40201
Walk-in Centers: Customer service centers are available in Louisville. Visit the official website for current locations and hours.
Always contact E-ZPass Kentucky using the information above. Do not trust contact details from suspicious messages. Scammers often set up fake phone numbers and websites that look official.
Kentucky E-ZPass Scam FAQs
This section answers common questions about Kentucky E-ZPass scams. Each answer provides clear, direct information to help you stay safe.
How do I know if a Kentucky E-ZPass text is real?
Real E-ZPass Kentucky texts only go to account holders who signed up for text alerts. They never include a payment link. They never demand immediate payment to avoid penalties. If your text includes a link to pay a toll, it is a scam. Log in to your account at www.e-zpassky.com to check your balance and any notices.
What should I do if I already paid a scam text?
Contact your credit card company or bank right away. Report the charge as fraudulent and ask to reverse it. Then change the password on any account that shares the same login. File a report with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and the FBI at ic3.gov. Place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus if you entered personal information.
Can E-ZPass Kentucky suspend my license over a text message?
No. E-ZPass Kentucky does not send texts about license suspension. Real toll agencies follow a legal process that includes multiple notices by mail. They give you weeks or months to pay. Any text threatening immediate license suspension is a scam.
How do I report a Kentucky E-ZPass scam text?
Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) to report it to your phone carrier. Then file a report with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and the FBI IC3 at ic3.gov. You can also report the scam to E-ZPass Kentucky through their official website. Save a screenshot of the text before you delete it.
What is the difference between RiverLink and E-ZPass Kentucky?
RiverLink is the tolling system for the three Louisville-area bridges. E-ZPass Kentucky is the transponder program that works with RiverLink and other toll roads in 17 states. Drivers with E-ZPass transponders get the lowest toll rates. Drivers without transponders get billed by RiverLink using their license plate.
Will E-ZPass Kentucky ever call me about an unpaid toll?
E-ZPass Kentucky does not make unsolicited calls about unpaid tolls. They communicate mostly by mail and through your online account. If you receive a call claiming to be from E-ZPass, hang up and call the official customer service number at 1-800-333-6946 to verify.
How can I check if I really owe a toll in Kentucky?
Visit www.e-zpassky.com and use the Pay Toll or Check Balance tool. You can also call 1-800-333-6946 during business hours. Real toll notices always appear in your account or in your mail. Any text or email about a toll should be verified through these official channels.
