The FBI Atlanta field office is warning residents about a “smishing” scam involving Georgia’s electronic toll collection system, Peach Pass.
“Smishing” combines the text abbreviation SMS (short message service) and phishing, which is lingo for attacks on the internet, email, or websites.
The fake texts claim the recipient owes money for unpaid tolls and include a phone number and website link.
The FBI reports that since March 1, the number of complaints to its Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) reporting smishing texts from Peach Pass has jumped dramatically.
According to a statement, IC3 reports 1,573 complaints have been made so far in March. That compares to 1,720 complaints received between Jan. 1, 2024, and Feb. 28, 2025.
Reported losses currently stand at $3,643.42. The actual number of victims is believed to be much larger, according to the FBI statement.
If you receive one of these texts, you can file a complaint with the IC3 at www.ic3.gov. You should delete the text without clicking on any links or calling any phone numbers listed in the message. If you clicked a link or provided information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts.
