Indiana Alert: How Hoosiers Can Stay Safe from Government Email Scams
Email scams continue to target Indiana residents by exploiting familiar government names. If you have received a suspicious email about unpaid tolls or government notices, you’re not alone. Understanding these scams—and how to protect yourself—has become crucial for Hoosiers in 2025.
Recent Indiana Scam Emails Explained
Over the past months, many Indiana citizens have reported emails that appear to come from state agencies, such as the Indiana Department of Child Services or the Department of Correction. These messages usually claim you owe unpaid toll fees, urging you to click a link and make a payment.
But officials made it clear: these messages are scams. The Indiana Office of Technology (IOT) confirmed that a former contractor’s account was hacked after a contract ended, and this account was then used to send fraudulent emails to many inboxes statewide. The scam emails look almost identical to legitimate correspondence, making them especially dangerous.
According to a detailed report by IndyStar, you should know that:
- Indiana state agencies never send unpaid toll notifications via email or text message.
- Some scam emails may reference "TxTag Customer Service," which manages Texas tolls, not Indiana’s E-ZPass system.
- Links in these scam emails are designed to steal your payment information or infect your device.
Official Response and What Indiana Residents Need to Know
The Indiana Office of Technology is actively investigating the root of these scams and working to prevent more fraudulent emails from reaching Hoosiers. As published in a news release on Eagle Country Online, the compromised contractor account has been identified and corrective measures are underway. Fortunately, no current Indiana state systems have been breached.
Here’s how you can stay secure:
- Never click on links in emails claiming to be from Indiana government offices about tolls or payments.
- Verify the sender’s address with official state websites before responding to any government emails.
- Report suspicious emails to the Indiana Attorney General’s Office at www.indianaconsumer.com.
Tips for Staying Safe Online in Indiana
- Stay Alert: If a message claims urgent action, pause and examine it closely.
- Contact Authorities: When in doubt, reach out to the official department by phone or through their website.
- Use Strong Passwords: Keep your email secure by using unique, strong passwords.
- Warn Family and Friends: Talk to others in Indiana about these scams—especially seniors, who may be more at risk.
Remember, the Indiana Toll Road will never contact you by unsolicited email or text for payment. Following these tips will help protect you from becoming a victim.
Conclusion: Indiana’s Commitment to Cybersecurity
Indiana’s commitment to protecting residents online is stronger than ever. State officials are urging everyone to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. By understanding the signs of email scams and taking proactive steps, Hoosiers can keep their information—and finances—secure.
For further guidance or to see the latest updates, review the Indiana Office of Technology’s statements and stay informed through reputable news outlets. Being aware is your best defense.