Pikepass Scam Texts: OTA explains what's being done to stop the messages

People all over are frustrated after getting several text messages demanding payment for late PIKEPASS charges. The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority says these texts are a scam and it is working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation to get them stopped for good.

The OTA says it has received a near-record number of calls with questions about the texts. The agency says the amount of texts are increasing.

What do the bogus texts say?

Commonly, the texts pose as "PIKEPASS" or tolls from other states, claiming a final notice to make a payment to the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority for unpaid toll charges.

The texts threaten fines, suspension of car registration, possible impoundment and even legal action, if the fine is not paid.

It often references "severe consequences."

How much have the texts increased?

Some people say they are getting several texts daily.

OTA executive director Joe Echelle says at least 150 websites have been generated in a 24 hour window to pull off the scam.

"These are mostly foreign-based websites that are held in foreign countries," said Echelle. "It takes the FBI at least a week to sometimes 10 days to get the sites taken down."

What should you do if you get a text?

Report it.

You can make a report to the Federal Trade Commission at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/?orgcode=OKTPKE.

You can also report it to the FBI at www.ic3.gov.

Those getting the text can forward it to 7726 to provide more information.

Delete the texts after you make a report.

Are people falling for the scam?

Some catch on quick that the texts are bogus.

"I have gotten probably six in the last month and I block them," said James Long. "I usually know they're scam because I don't even have a vehicle. I don't go through tolls."

However, the OTA says there are some cases where people are falling for the texts.

"They paid it, then a few days later, they had $400 charged to their credit card," said Echelle.

How does OTA collect payments?

The OTA does not send text messages.

People with a PlatePay account can log in to see if there are any charges. Those without an account will have an invoice mailed to them.