Michigan drivers are being warned of scam texts claiming fake toll charges as MDOT uses highway signs and state coordination to curb fraud before Memorial Day travel.

Toll Scam Warning Michigan Drivers on Eve of Holiday Weekend

As more than 1.3 million Michiganders prepare for Memorial Day travel, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is launching a new campaign to fight back against the growing toll text scam. The department is now using its network of 278 dynamic message signs (DMS) along state highways to post warnings, reminding drivers that Michigan does not operate toll roads and never sends texts requesting payments.

MDOT’s action follows weeks of phishing attempts that mimic official state agencies. The digital signs will remain active through June with this message:

BE AWARE
TOLL TEXTS
ARE SCAMS

According to MDOT officials, hundreds of calls have been received from concerned drivers. In response, the agency has not only updated footer language in press releases but also placed visible alerts on its Mi Drive and MDOT websites.

MDOT Director Urges Vigilance as Scammers Mimic State Agencies

In April, MDOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich issued a video message clarifying the department’s role and assuring residents that any toll-related texts or emails are fake. “Please be assured this is a scam and the texts are not coming from MDOT or another State of Michigan agency,” Wieferich said. “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.”

This phishing attempt is just one of many similar schemes targeting travelers during high-volume holidays.

Attorney General Dana Nessel Joins Toll Scam Warning Efforts

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has also stepped in, warning residents about the signs of phishing and offering guidance on how to protect themselves. Her office reminds consumers that legitimate government agencies:

Will not request personal information through email, text, or over the phone.
Will never demand money through those channels.
Will send mailed notices and provide verified payment methods.
Will not ask for or accept prepaid gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or mobile payment apps.

Residents who receive a suspicious text should avoid clicking on any links or responding. Instead, they can forward the text to SPAM (7726) or report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Toll Scam Warning Michigan Residents as Scammers Target High-Travel Times

The toll scam text campaign has become a nationwide concern, but Michigan is among the few states without active toll highways. The appearance of these texts, impersonating state agencies, is particularly misleading to Michigan drivers.

With millions expected on the road, MDOT’s proactive digital sign campaign is designed to catch drivers’ attention in real time. By broadcasting direct warnings on highway signage and ramping up online and social outreach, MDOT hopes to slow the spread of misinformation and limit financial losses from fraud.

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