1. Luxury Car Worth $580,000 Missing During Transport — Lawsuit Filed
In a rare transportation scams but high‑profile case this week, Mercedes‑Benz Financial Services USA (MBFS) has sued several transport brokers and carriers after a Mercedes‑AMG G63 SUV valued at over $580,000 vanished during shipment from a Brooklyn dealership to Nevada. The complex delivery involved multiple brokers and carriers, and the vehicle was ultimately left hundreds of miles from its destination before being reported stolen. Officials say understanding subcontractor networks is critical to preventing similar transport fraud.
2. Toll Payment “Smishing” Scam Still Spreading Nationwide
Federal and state authorities continue to warn drivers about fraudulent text messages claiming the recipient has unpaid tolls or fees. Known as “smishing,” these scams impersonate toll agencies like E‑ZPass or DMV offices and include malicious payment links that steal financial and personal information. Officials recommend:
- Never clicking unsolicited links
- Deleting suspicious texts immediately
- Verifying toll payments only via official app or website
Multiple warnings from public safety agencies and cybersecurity firms confirm this scheme is ongoing and widespread across many states.
3. Freight & Logistics Scams Growing in the Trucking Industry
Experts report a significant rise in freight scams targeting trucking companies. In emerging schemes, fake shippers solicit quotes and request financial details before disappearing without moving any goods — leaving carriers exposed to wire transfer fraud and banking risk.
Transport industry analysts stress the importance of vetting shippers and verifying credentials before accepting load offers, especially in interstate logistics.
4. FBI & Transportation Agencies Alert Public to New Fraud Tactics
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently updated its fraud alerts, warning that bogus email addresses and fake communications — claiming to require driver’s licenses or insurance documents — are circulating among transport businesses. These messages aim to trick carriers into providing sensitive data.
⚠ Official tip: Always cross‑check emails claiming government affiliation by confirming the sender domain @dot.gov
5. Auto Transport Scams on the Rise — Watch for Red Flags
Consumer protection sources report that fraud in auto transport services — used to ship cars between states — is increasing. Common tactics include fake companies that disappear after deposits, bait‑and‑switch pricing, and copycat websites that mimic legitimate carriers.
How to protect yourself:
- Check the carrier’s FMCSA registration
- Avoid upfront wire deposits
- Compare multiple quotes and reviews
Spotting Transportation Scams: Red Flags and Prevention Tips:
Transportation Scams isn’t just a financial annoyance — it’s evolving. Cybercriminals and scam networks are increasingly blending phishing techniques with traditional transport fraud, using fake texts and cloned company websites to make scams appear legitimate. This growing sophistication has made it more difficult to spot fraudulent activities. Law enforcement and consumer advocates strongly urge both drivers and businesses to verify all communications before trusting any offers or claims. Whether it’s auto transport or toll payments, being vigilant is key.
From high-value auto transport scams to widespread “smishing” toll scams and growing freight fraud, transportation scams in the U.S. have become more sophisticated and widespread in 2025 and 2026. It’s essential to stay informed and confirm all digital communications with official sources to protect your vehicle, your money, and your personal information.
Encountered a transportation scams? Protect yourself and others by reporting it on our dedicated page. Click here to submit your scam report and help us stop fraud in its tracks!
Before you go, here are some important tips: legitimate agencies will never ask for payments via unsolicited texts. Always check corporate and carrier credentials on official sites like DOT or FMCSA to ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate company. If you encounter suspicious activity, make sure to report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), or your local police. Staying alert and informed is your best defense against these evolving threats.
