MassDOT Alerts Customers of EZDriveMA Scam

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BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is once again reminding customers to be mindful of text message-based scams, also known as smishing. The scammers are claiming to represent the tolling agency and requesting payment for unpaid tolls.  
 
Customers receiving the scam text messages seem to be chosen at random as the targeted phone numbers 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?which the FBI is aware of. Smishing is when unscrupulous actors send deceptive text messages to get someone to reveal confidential or financial information. 
 
The FBI recommends individuals that receive the fraudulent messages do the following:  
 
  1. File a complaint with the IC3,?www.ic3.gov and be sure to include:
    • The phone number from where the text originated.  
    •  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 EZDriveMA at?www.EZDriveMA.com?with any questions about notifications.  

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Pittsfield Announces a New Program to Help Fill Vacant Storefronts

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City of Pittsfield announced the availability of refundable state tax credits for businesses through the Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program (MVSP). 
 
These credits are offered to companies that choose to occupy commercial spaces that have been vacant for at least six to twelve months.
 
The MVSP was established to support municipalities in revitalizing their downtown and commercial districts. By encouraging businesses to move into long-term vacant storefronts, the program aims to foster economic development and invigorate community spaces. Refundable tax credits serve as an incentive for businesses to fill key vacancies within a city's downtown or commercial area.
 
To further these efforts, the City of Pittsfield is collaborating with Downtown Pittsfield Inc. and the Berkshire Black Economic Council. These organizations are working alongside the city to assist businesses interested in occupying vacant storefronts, particularly in the downtown area and along the Tyler Street corridor.
 
For more details about the Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program and how to participate, reach out to Justine Dodds at the City's Department of Community Development at jdodds@pittsfieldma.gov or 413-499-9368.
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