Introduction
If you are a student or are still studying or have started driving a new car, then you should know about TxTag scams. Nowadays cyber criminals are targeting new drivers and students – especially those who pay tolls or have less knowledge about the process. So they get trapped in this scam.
So in this blog I will tell you:
What is TxTag? How does the scam happen? How do students escape? And what to do if you get scammed?
What is TxTag? (For Students Who Are New in Texas)
TxTag is a toll payment system used for automatic payment on toll roads in Texas. A tag (sticker) is attached to your car and when you cross the toll road, money is automatically deducted from your account.
Official Website: https://www.txtag.org
What is TxTag Scam and why are students being targeted?
Cyber criminals are now sending fake SMS, emails, or calls to students in which it is said:
“Your TxTag account has unpaid tolls. Click the link to pay now.”
When you click on this link, it takes you to a fake website which looks like real. There your credit card info, student email, or personal details get leaked.
Students are more vulnerable because:
- They have no idea of real vs fake messages
- They are tech-savvy but click too fast
- They are new to the toll system
- They are not financially independent, panic easily
Common Scam Traps for Students
Scam Type :
- Fake SMS: You receive a message saying you owe toll fees
- Fake Emails : An email pretending to be from TxTag with a payment link
- Phishing Sites: A website that looks like TxTag but is fake
- Threatening Language : “Pay in 24 hours or license will be suspended!”
How do students recognize fake TxTag messages?
- SMS from random numbers – If it has come from an unknown number, ignore it.
- Grammar Mistakes – There are spelling mistakes in scammer messages.
- Fear & Urgency – “Pay today itself otherwise you will be fined” = SCAM alert.
- Fake Websites – Only trust https://www.txtag.org.
- No Student Account Info Needed – TxTag never asks for student ID on email.
How can students avoid these scams?
- Use TxTag’s official app – download it from Play Store or App Store.
- Don’t click on any link – ignore it until you are sure.
- Enable 2FA – apply two-factor authentication to your email and bank account.
- Tell the college IT department – if you find something suspicious, talk to the college helpdesk.
- If you get a scam message, report it:
- TxTag Help: 1-888-468-9824
- FTC (Scam Report): https://reportfraud.ftc.gov
Example of Scam Messages (For Awareness)
From: TX Toll Notice
You owe $22.50 for tolls. Click below to avoid late fees:
txtag-payfast.com/fake-link
Real Complaints by Students & Users
“I just got to Texas for college. Received a TxTag text and paid $18. Turns out it was a scam. Total panic!” – Student, Austin
“I clicked the link thinking it was real. My card was charged $100 within an hour.” – University Student, Houston
Students’ Common Questions (People Also Ask)
Is TxTag a scam?
No, TxTag is genuine, but scams are happening through fake messages.
Are Texas drivers being scammed by TxTag scammers?
Yes, especially students and new drivers are being targeted.
Are TxTag toll bills a scam?
Not official, but fake bills and texts are definitely scam.
Does TxTag text customers?
Yes, but only from official numbers and never use urgent scare tactics.
How do I report a TxTag scam?
Report it at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov and call TxTag customer care.
What is a text message scam in Texas?
When you get a fake SMS in the name of TxTag, it is a phishing attempt.
Final Advice for Students
- Discuss it with your parents or guardians if you have any doubts.
- Contact the bank immediately after the scam and get the card blocked.
- Make your friends aware too – “Awareness = Protection”.
- Share such posts or blogs that make all students alert
Conclusion: Be a Smart Student, Not a Victim
In 2025, digital scams and phishing attacks have become common, and students are easy targets. That is why it is important that you take smart decisions, verify every link, and avoid scams. Keep your data, money, and peace of mind – everything safe. If you liked this blog, then share it with others so that everyone can avoid these scams.