By Blake Moren, CTCN Correspondent

Another scam has risen and it is affecting Oklahoma Turnpike Authority customers. Customers have been receiving text messages claiming that they owe tows. The text message contains a link, which the text asks customers to click.
Oklahoma Turnpike Authority spokesperson Lisa Shearer-Salim said this is a nationwide problem that began in April. Shearer-Salim said the scam has become more sophisticated within the last two weeks.
Shearer-Sailm also said the link on the scam text messages sends customers to websites that are very similar to the agency’s.Shearer-Salim encourages customers to not click on the link.
One of the scam messages tells customers that a vehicle has a toll invoice in Oklahoma. According to the message, the balance of $4.15 needs to be settled quickly to avoid a $35 late fee.
If a customer needs to check their balance, they can either go to the PikePass or PlatePay’s official websites and type in their license plate.
“If it doesn’t say search by license plate,” Shearer-Salim said, “you are probably on the wrong website.”
Another option for customers is to call 1-800-pikepass.
“If you have even an inkling of uncertainty, don’t click the link. Check your account. Call us. Email us. We want to make sure you are not being defrauded,” Shearer-Salim said.
According to Shearer-Salim, the agency is removing fraudulent websites.
She also said that even if a customer pays the scammers, they will still be financially responsible for any outstanding balance.