Wisconsin consumers are being warned about a surge in scam text messages falsely claiming recipients owe overdue toll fees, according to a joint consumer alert issued this week by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

State officials say the scam messages are designed to look like “final notice” alerts and often claim to be associated with WisDOT. The texts typically include a link urging recipients to pay an outstanding balance immediately to avoid penalties or legal action.

If the link is opened, it directs users to what appears to be a legitimate toll payment website. In reality, officials say, the site is controlled by scammers seeking to steal money or personal information.

Wisconsin does not operate a statewide toll road system, making such messages especially suspicious. Even so, officials warn that scammers are relying on urgency and fear to prompt quick responses before consumers have time to question the legitimacy of the message.

DATCP and WisDOT urge consumers to slow down and avoid clicking on links or responding to unexpected toll-related texts. Anyone concerned they may legitimately owe toll fees after traveling out of state should contact the appropriate tolling agency directly using verified phone numbers or official websites, rather than relying on contact information provided in a text message.