Calgary police are alerting the public to a new wave of scam text messages that falsely demand payment for traffic fines or other penalties. The fraudulent texts, which appear to come from official sources, urge recipients to click on a link to avoid further charges. Authorities emphasize that these messages are not legitimate and advise residents to delete them immediately without responding.
How the Scam Works
The scam typically involves a text message claiming that the recipient has an unpaid fine and must pay immediately to avoid legal consequences. The message includes a link that leads to a fake payment portal designed to steal personal and financial information. Police note that scammers often spoof official phone numbers or use generic greetings to appear credible.
What to Do If You Receive a Scam Text
- Do not click any links or reply to the message.
- Delete the text immediately.
- If you have already clicked a link or provided information, contact your bank and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Official Response
Calgary police confirm that they never request fine payments via text message. All legitimate fines are communicated through official mail or in-person notices. The police are working with telecommunications providers to identify and block the scam numbers. They also urge anyone who receives such a text to report it to local authorities.
Protecting Yourself from Phishing
Residents are reminded to be cautious of unsolicited messages that create a sense of urgency. Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information via text. For more information on fraud prevention, visit the Calgary Police Service website or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
