Pennsylvania lawmakers are taking aim at scam texts that prey on people’s fear. The rule would apply to toll texts.
Crooks posing as transportation agencies and other government offices have flooded phones with fake texts and emails. The messages often claim the recipient owes money and must pay now.
The scam is simple: Create fear, rush people into acting, and hope they hand over their money or personal information.
Government agencies across the country have repeatedly warned residents that the messages are fake. They have also made one thing clear: They do not demand payment through text messages.
But that line could soon become blurry.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has considered using toll text messages to notify drivers about unpaid bills.
Drawing a line
The House voted unanimously to fight back against the proposed program.
Sponsored by Rep. Mary Louise Isaacson, D-Philadelphia, HB2551 would ban state agencies from using text messages to collect unpaid fines, fees, tolls or other charges. The ban would also apply to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.
“Over the last few years, Pennsylvanians have been inundated with fraudulent text messages from bad actors masquerading as Commonwealth agencies,” Isaacson said. “These fraudulent text messages warn of imaginary unpaid fees, fines and tolls.”
She said the toll text and other scams are working far too often.
Some people have been tricked into handing over credit card numbers, bank details, Social Security numbers and other private information.
Residents have long been told state agencies will never demand payment through a text. But that clear warning could soon lose its power.
“If state agencies were to begin sending texts about financial matters, they would be blurring the lines between legitimate sources and bad actors pretending to be an agency,” Isaacson said.
She warned that government payment texts could make it harder to spot scams. The change could also give criminals an easier way to fool more people.
Closing the loopholes
The committee-approved version of the bill included exceptions. People could choose to receive messages from state agencies. Agencies also could send free information about government services.
Exceptions for toll texts and more were removed on the House floor.
Rep. Brenda Pugh, R-Dallas, said the change gives consumers stronger and clearer protection.
“My amendment removed the exceptions from the bill, ensuring the prohibition is applied consistently,” Pugh said. “Pennsylvanians should not have to wonder whether a text that is demanding payment is legitimate or not.”
HB2551 now moves to the Senate Communications and Technology Committee. LL
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