Is ETC Prone to Unauthorized Charges?
2 Answers
The ETC installed in cars is generally not susceptible to unauthorized charges because the ETC requires the insertion of a dedicated ETC card, which can only communicate with authorized devices, such as the ETC equipment at highway entrances and exits. Precautions for Using ETC: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. When encountering a vehicle in front that has stopped, to prevent issues such as the front vehicle's ETC device malfunctioning or not having an ETC device at all, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the front vehicle to avoid automatic sensing and paying for the front vehicle's toll. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h. If the vehicle speed is too fast, the system will be unable to read the vehicle's device information, leading to a failed toll deduction. Unauthorized removal or movement of the OBU device, detachment or loosening of the ETC electronic tag, etc., will cause the electronic tag to become invalid. In such cases, it can be taken to the bank where the ETC card was issued or the highway service office for inspection. If the loosening or detachment is not due to human intervention, reactivation is sufficient. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance can also lead to a failed toll deduction. Follow the guidance of on-site staff to proceed to the manual MTC lane and use cash or card payment for passage. Excessive thickness of the car's windshield can cause poor sensing. This is particularly important for vehicles that have had their windshields replaced after an accident or for those who have modified their front windshields.
As a seasoned driver who frequently uses highways, I have some authority to speak on the security of ETC cards. ETC cards are essentially electronic toll collection cards that are affixed to the windshield for use. There is indeed a risk of them being easily skimmed, especially the older RFID-type cards, where someone with a card reader can steal the card number with a close-range scan. Last year, I heard news reports about some car owners having their cards skimmed by criminals in parking lots. However, many newer cards have been upgraded, such as those co-branded with banks, which allow for password protection, spending limits, or real-time transaction monitoring via a mobile app, making them much more secure. I recommend regularly checking your statements, not leaving your ETC card exposed, and either removing it or storing it in the glove compartment after parking. Overall, it's easier to prevent fraud now than before, but it's still important to stay vigilant against these small-scale scams. After all, it's about protecting your wallet—don't skimp on the effort.
