FBI Issues New Warning About iPhone Toll Text Scam

Washington, D.C. (KFMO) - A widespread texting scam targeting iPhone users may be far more dangerous than first thought, according to a new warning issued by the FBI.

The scam, which began circulating earlier this year, involves text messages that appear to come from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), claiming the recipient has unpaid tolls. The latest version of the message contains a malicious link — and clicking on it can compromise iPhones by allowing hackers to access sensitive personal information.

The FBI is now urging all iPhone users, more than 150 million across the United States, to immediately delete any messages referencing unpaid tolls, and not to click any links they contain.

Authorities say phone-based scams typically spike in June, increasing nearly tenfold compared to other months, though the reason behind the seasonal jump remains unclear.

Users are advised to keep devices updated, enable spam filters, and report suspicious messages to local law enforcement or the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.