MassDOT Alerts Customers of EZDriveMA Scam

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is warning EZDriveMA customers of a text message-based scam, also known as smishing.

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. 

MassDOT is underscoring that:  

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

The EZDrive smishing scam is part of a?series of smishing scams?that the FBI is aware of. The FBI recommends individuals that receive the fraudulent messages do the following: 

1. File a complaint with the IC3,?www.ic3.gov, be sure to include:
   1. The phone number from where the text originated. 
   2. The website listed within the text. 
2. Check your account using the toll service's legitimate website. 
3. Contact the toll service's customer service phone number at (877) 627-7745. 
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 encourages all customers to stay alert to these types of scams and to contact us at?www.EZDriveMA.com?with any questions about EZDriveMA notifications. 

Thanksgiving Angels Show Up for Increased Need

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
05:37AM / Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Cole, 6, and Trey, 3, stock bread for the Thanksgiving Angels in this provided photo.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — As the cost of living continues to rise, so does the need for Thanksgiving Angels.

The meal kit distribution effort has surpassed last year's numbers, serving more than 2,200 local families in need. Around 500 volunteers have helped with the entire process and on Monday, around 100 volunteers packed into the South Congregational Church for drive-through distribution.

Generosity is the engine that has powered Thanksgiving Angels for around 15 years.

"The community is so incredibly generous with financials and their time and helping us to pull this off," co-Chair Gretchen DeBartolo said.

"… it's a lot of hands, an awful lot of hands, and without that, there'd be nothing."

There were about 600 home deliveries over the weekend for the elderly, those with disabilities, and those without a vehicle.

"People have been generous with in-kind donations and with money," co-Chair Hope Amandos said.

"I think we will be able to cover our expenses. I think we did well with donations."