MassDOT Warns of Toll-fee Smishing Scam

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation was alerted that a text message-based scam, also known as smishing, is fraudulently claiming to represent tolling agencies from across the country. The scammers are claiming to represent the tolling agency and requesting payment for unpaid tolls.

The targeted phone numbers seem to be chosen at random and are not uniquely associated with an account or usage of toll roads.

Customers who receive an unsolicited text, email, or similar message suggesting it is from EZDriveMA or another toll agency should not click on the link.

EZDriveMA customers can verify a valid text notification in several ways:

• EZDriveMA will never request payment by text
• All links associated with EZDriveMA will include www.EZDriveMA.com

The FBI says it has received more than 2,000 complaints related to toll smishing scams since early March and recommends individuals who receive fraudulent messages do the following:

1. File a complaint with the  Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov; be sure to include:

The phone number from where the text originated.

2. Check your account using the toll service's legitimate website.

3. Contact the toll service's customer service phone number.

4. Delete any smishing texts received.

5. If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.

MassDOT encourage customers to stay alert to these types of scams and to contact the department at www.ezdrivema.com with any questions about EZDriveMA notifications.

North Adams Remembers Pearl Harbor, Honors Local Veterans

By Jack GuerinoiBerkshires Staff
12:10PM / Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Legion Senior Vice Cmdr. David Levesque emcees of event.

 

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — American Legion Post 125 held a Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony to mark the events of Dec. 7, 1941, and honor veterans and Legionnaires who have made a difference in the community.

 

Before commencing the ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 7, state Rep. John Barrett III read a citation from the governor naming Legion member Dennis St. Pierre as the recipient of the American Patriot Award.

 

"Dennis has done so much for so long for so many veterans," Barrett said. "He made sure his friends were never forgotten and, more importantly, he never stopped giving … he was always there when someone needed him, and if he wasn't there he always made sure somebody would be there."

 

Wayne Soares, actor and veterans advocate, as well as a columnist for iBerkshires, presented St. Pierre with a bronze eagle statue and offered a few personal words.

 

"I have known him since I was 18 years old. With Bob Cellena [co-owner of the State Street Tavern with St. Pierre] he has been the biggest brother I never had," he said. "He has supported me through countless experiences … In a world filled with takers, he has always been a giver. He has been a force in my life."

 

St. Pierre, surprised, accepted the award.

 

"I don't have a whole lot to say because I am blindsided," he said. "Thank you all for being here."