Introduction: What Is Pikepass and Why Are Scammers Targeting It in 2025?
Pikepass is an electronic toll collection system used mainly on Oklahoma turnpikes. Through this, people can pay the toll without stopping. But in 2025, cybercriminals have started targeting this system — and their main target is senior citizens. They trap them and steal their money by targeting them.
Why? Because seniors are not very tech-savvy, and they can be easily confused by phishing emails, fake calls, or SMS.
In this blog, we will explain in detail what Pikepass scams are, how they work, and how senior citizens can avoid them.
1. Common Pikepass Scams in 2025: Seniors Beware!
a. Fake Toll Violation Messages
Scammers send SMS or email that says:
“You have an unpaid Pikepass toll. Pay now to avoid penalties.”
Clicking on the link takes you to a fake site that takes your personal details or payment information.
b. Phishing Calls (Pretending to Be Pikepass Officials)
Fraudsters will call you and say that there is an issue with your Pikepass account and you need to verify — your credit card number or SSN may be asked.
c. Fake Pikepass Apps
In 2025, some seniors are downloading fake Pikepass apps which steal their data or hack their phone.
d. “Refund” Scams
The scammer says that you were charged extra toll and will get a refund. Then he takes your bank details or shares your screen (like through AnyDesk or TeamViewer).
2. Why Are Senior Citizens Most Vulnerable to These Scams?
- Lack of digital literacy: Many seniors do not have basic awareness about phishing and malware.
- Trusting nature: Most seniors easily trust genuine people.
- Hearing/vision issues: It is difficult to understand fake messages or voice calls, which creates confusion.
- No multi-layer verification: Seniors rarely enable 2-factor authentication, making them easy targets.
3. Signs of a Pikepass Scam: Alert Ho Jaaiye!
If you or your parents/grandparents find anything suspicious related to Pikepass, then pay attention to these things:
- Message or call in urgent tone (“Pay now or you’ll be fined!”)
- Grammar mistakes or strange URL (e.g., pikepass-okla.com instead of official one)
- Unverified apps on Play Store or App Store
- Requesting personal or payment information immediately
4. Prevention Tips: Seniors Can Stay Safe With These Steps
a. Always Use Official Sources Only
- The official website of Pikepass is only https://www.pikepass.com/.
- If you ever get a link for toll payment or account verification, first open the official website and login manually.
b. Never Share OTP, Password, or Card Info on Call
Pikepass or any genuine company will never call you and ask for sensitive information.
c. Use a Trusted Device with Updated Security
The phone or computer should be updated – antivirus should be installed, and download apps only from trusted sources.
d. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
If your Pikepass account has MFA, then your account becomes extra secure. You will get an alert on any unauthorized login attempt.
e. Involve Family Members
If a senior citizen has trouble using tech, have a family member monitor their Pikepass payments or account.
5. Real-Life Example
1. Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) and FBI Warnings
In April 2024, the OTA and FBI alerted PIKEPASS customers about a smishing scam involving fraudulent text messages claiming unpaid toll balances. These messages included links to fake payment portals impersonating official state toll services. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received over 2,000 such complaints since early March 2024. KFOR+7KFOR+7BleepingComputer+7
2. Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) Alerts
The PTC reported a resurgence of smishing scams targeting E-ZPass users. Victims received texts urging immediate payment for alleged unpaid tolls, directing them to counterfeit websites designed to steal personal and financial information. Pennsylvania Turnpike+2WGAL+2Pennsylvania Turnpike+2Pennsylvania Turnpike+1The Times of India+1
3. FBI’s Nationwide Advisory
In April 2024, the FBI issued a warning about a widespread SMS phishing campaign exploiting road toll payment systems. Scammers sent messages about outstanding toll amounts, leading recipients to malicious websites mimicking official toll service portals. BleepingComputer
6. What to Do If You’ve Already Been Scammed?
Step 1: Block Your Card Immediately
If you have shared your card details, immediately call your bank and get the card blocked.
Step 2: Report the Incident to Pikepass
Call Pikepass customer care at 1-800-745-3727 and report the scam.
Step 3: File a Complaint on FTC or IC3.gov (if in the US)
These agencies investigate scams and help track down fraudsters.
Step 4: Inform Family Members
So that any other family member can also be alert.
7. Resources for Seniors to Stay Cyber Safe
AARP Fraud Watch Network – Provides regular alerts and scam prevention tips for seniors
Pikepass Official Alerts Page – Latest scam warnings are available on Pikepass website
8. Awareness Campaigns for Families: Help Your Elders Stay Safe
Educating senior citizens is not just their job – it is also a family responsibility.
Once a month:
- Review their email and messages
- Have a scam awareness discussion
- Check security settings (passwords, antivirus, etc.)
You can create a cheat sheet for them that says:
“Do not click on any toll or Pikepass message without verifying. Call me first or go to the Pikepass site and check.”
9. FAQs: People Also Ask
Q. How do I know if a Pikepass message is real or fake?
Check sender’s email address, URL, and grammar errors in the message. If you feel suspicious, call Pikepass directly.
Q. Can scammers get money from just my phone number?
If you have given OTP or UPI access through phone number, then yes. It is important to remain cautious.
Q. What is the safest way to pay tolls in 2025?
Use only the official Pikepass website or app. Avoid third-party apps or links from messages.
Q. Do scammers target only Pikepass or other toll systems too?
Well, scammers target E-ZPass, TxTag, and other toll systems. Same tactics are used.
Conclusion:
Stay One Step Ahead – Knowledge is the Best ProtectionIn 2025 scams are getting smarter, but if you are informed you can avoid them. Basic digital awareness, family support, and regular monitoring for senior citizens can reduce the risk of scams. If this blog has been of any use to you, then definitely share it with others. Thank you.