Police in British Columbia are issuing a public alert about a sophisticated text message scam that is attempting to trick residents into paying for fake speeding tickets. The fraudulent messages demand immediate payment, creating a sense of urgency to bypass victims' critical thinking.
How the Speeding Ticket Scam Operates
The scam involves unsolicited text messages that appear to be from a legitimate authority, such as a police department or provincial court. These messages falsely claim the recipient has been caught speeding by a photo radar or traffic camera. The texts often include a link to a website designed to look official, where victims are prompted to enter personal and financial information to pay the alleged fine.
Authorities emphasize that legitimate government agencies or police departments will never demand immediate payment for a traffic violation via text message. Official fines are always sent by mail to the registered address of the vehicle owner, providing detailed information about the alleged infraction and the formal process for disputing or paying the ticket.
Protecting Yourself from Fraud
To avoid falling victim to this and similar scams, police advise the public to follow several key steps. First, never click on links or provide personal information in response to an unexpected text message. Second, verify any claim of a fine independently by contacting the relevant agency using a phone number found on their official website, not the one provided in the suspicious message.
If you receive such a text, you should report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. This scam alert was issued by police on December 02, 2025, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance. Scammers frequently adapt their tactics to current events or common government processes to appear more convincing.
Residents are reminded that protecting personal data is crucial. Sharing information like your driver's licence number, credit card details, or home address with scammers can lead to identity theft and significant financial loss. When in doubt, always take a moment to pause and verify before taking any action.
