Pa. Turnpike to use text messages to push scofflaws to pay toll bills

The article is about a new Pennsylvania Turnpike initiative to send legitimate text reminders to drivers who owe tolls, in an effort to get them to pay before their accounts are sent to outside collection agencies.

This is a notable shift because, until now, the PA Turnpike has emphasized that it does not text customers directly about unpaid tolls, warning that such messages are often “smishing” scams. Historically, the Turnpike has relied on mailed notices and only allowed its third‑party collection agencies (Harris & Harris and TSI) to send texts to consumers with significant overdue balances, and even then without payment links like Zelle/Venmo that are typical of scams.

The new program described in the story aims to:

• Target “scofflaws” who have unpaid toll bills.

• Use text messages as a softer, earlier nudge to pay what they owe, ideally resolving the balance directly instead of escalating to a collection agency.

• Reduce the volume of accounts that progress into full collections activity.

At the same time, state agencies and courts have been dealing with a wave of fake toll texts, where scammers impersonate the Turnpike or courts and threaten hearings, license suspension, or extra penalties unless people click a link or QR code to “pay” alleged unpaid tolls. Officials continue to warn that legitimate public entities will not demand payment or sensitive financial data through such unsolicited text links, and encourage drivers to verify any billing directly through official Turnpike channels or their E‑ZPass/Toll By Plate accounts.