York Regional Police is warning the public of a scam that uses fake speed camera tickets to try and steal sensitive information.
The alleged fraudsters use text messages designed to look urgent and official to convince victims that they must click on a link to pay outstanding speed camera fines. The scammers are using the messages to try and steal personal and financial information, police wrote in a .
“All legitimate traffic tickets, speed camera tickets and payment instructions are sent through the mail,” the release continued. “York Regional Police or any government agency will never demand payment via text message.”
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As a protective measure, recipients should not click on links or download attachments from unexpected text messages, police said. They should also ignore any texts that claim to be ticket payment requests and always wait for the official mail notifications of traffic violations. If a someone is unsure about the legitimacy of a message or letter, they should contact the office directly using verified contact information.
Anyone who has been a victim of fraud and lost money should report the incident promptly through the or the non-emergency phone number, 1-866-876-5423. Scams where no money has been lost can be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Anastasia Blosser is a breaking news reporter, working out of
the Star’s radio room in É«É«À². Reach her via email: ablosser@thestar.ca
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