New ‘E-Z Pass’ text scam circulating on Garden Isle

A new mobile phone scam is circulating on the Garden Isle involving text messages allegedly from the Kaua‘i County Division of Motor Vehicles.

Kaua‘i County Department of Finance says the text says the person who receives it must satisfy an “E-Z Pass lane debt” to avoid fines and suspension of their driving privileges.

A link directs people to a cloned website, where scammers hope they they enter their credit card details and profiles, thereby obtaining their personal and financial information.

Island residents are urged to be vigilant. Remain alert for this and any other requests asking for personal and financial information without properly verifying the source first.

Here are key tips to avoid becoming a victim to scams:

• All official communication from the Kaua‘i County will be sent by mail, not by phone.
• If in doubt, never text or call back. Contact Kaua‘i Police Department directly at 808-241-1711.
• Be cautious of high-pressure tactics and urgent payment requests.
• Do not share personal or financial information with unknown callers.

Family members and caretakers of elderly residents are encouraged to review these scam warnings with loved ones.

If you receive unsolicited calls or texts demanding payment, hang up immediately, do not open any links and report all suspicious calls or messages to Kaua‘i Police Department dispatch at 808-241-1711.