Scam Alert: Fraudulent Phone Calls & Text Messages Demanding Payments
Scam Alert: Fraudulent Text Messages Demanding Tax Payments
The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office is warning residents about an active scam involving fraudulent phone call and text messages demanding immediate payment for alleged delinquent taxes.
How the Scam Works
- Phone calls or text messages threatening immediate arrest
- Demands for payment through Zelle or similar apps
- References to missed court dates you don’t remember
- Pressure to act immediately or face consequences
- Impersonating local county or city personnel
Important Facts to Remember
Our office will NEVER:
- Text you demanding immediate payment
- Request payment through Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, or gift cards
- Demand payment to avoid immediate arrest
Our office ALWAYS:
- Sends official notices by mail
- Provides multiple opportunities to resolve property, tangible, or business tax matters
- Follows legal procedures that include proper notice and due process
- Accepts payments through official channels only
If You Receive a Suspicious Text
- Do NOT respond or send money
- Do NOT click any links in the message
- Do NOT reply with any personal information
- Screenshot the message for evidence
- Delete the message
- Contact our office directly at 813-635-5200 if you have concerns about your property, tangible, or business tax status
Report the Scam
If you’ve received these fraudulent messages:
- Report to local law enforcement
- File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov)
- Forward the text to SPAM
Verify Before You Pay
Always verify any property, tangible, or business tax-related communication by contacting our office directly using the phone number on our official website, not any number provided in a suspicious message.
New Requirements for Teen Drivers
Important Changes for Teen Drivers Ages 15-17
Florida has implemented new requirements for teen drivers seeking their Learner’s Permit. These changes affect teens ages 15-17 and their parents who need to navigate the updated licensing process.
Effective August 1, 2025
Beginning August 1, 2025, all teen drivers ages 15-17 must complete the following requirements to obtain their Learner’s Permit:
- New 6-Hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) Course: This comprehensive course replaces the previous 4-hour TLSAE course for teen drivers
- Documentation Requirements: Real ID-compliant documents, proof of address, and parental consent
- Course Change: The 4-hour TLSAE course will no longer be accepted for teen drivers
Grandfathered Exemptions
The following teen drivers will not need to complete the new DETS course:
Completed Requirements Before August 1, 2025
- Teens who completed the TLSAE course before August 1, 2025 (certificate remains valid for one year from completion date)
- Teens who already possess a Florida Learner’s Permit before August 1, 2025
Other Exemptions
- Teens moving to Florida with a valid out-of-state permit or license
- Individuals age 18 and older (will continue using the TLSAE course)
Important Timing Consideration
If you complete the TLSAE course before August 1, 2025, but do not obtain your license within one year of course completion, you will be required to take the new 6-hour DETS course.
Text Message Toll Scam Alert
ONGOING THREAT: Fraudulent text messages demanding payment for alleged unpaid tolls continue to target Hillsborough County residents.
What You Need to Know
The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office and toll authorities will NEVER:
- Send text messages demanding immediate payment
- Ask you to click on payment links sent via text
- Request personal or financial information through text messages
Recognize the Scam
Red flags to watch for:
- Urgent text messages claiming you have unpaid toll violations
- Links directing you to suspicious payment websites
- Threats of additional fees or penalties if you don’t pay immediately
- Messages from unknown or unfamiliar phone numbers
How to Protect Yourself
If you receive a suspicious toll-related text message:
- Do not click any links or provide personal information
- Do not respond to the message
- Report the scam to the Florida Attorney General’s Office
- Verify independently by contacting the relevant toll authority directly using official contact information
Stay Informed
Share this information with family, friends, and neighbors to help protect our entire community from these scam attempts.
For questions about legitimate toll payments or to verify outstanding fees, contact the appropriate toll authority directly through their official website or customer service number.