FRAUD ALERT: Recognize, reject, report
Purpose
This bulletin was prepared by the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre to warn Canadians of a new variation of a phishing scam involving a traffic infringement/violation.
Traffic Infringement/Violation Scam
Canadians are receiving email notices that appear to come from government authorities such as police. The email notices are claiming to the recipient that they have been issued a traffic infringement or violation. The email lists the reason for the infringement, usually negligent driving, an infringement number, date of issue and the amount due. The email states that the fine must be paid immediately and either directs them to click on a link to make the payment or to click on an attachment. Those who click on the link are then asked to enter personal information. The email variation with the attachment, claims it is photographic proof of the infringement. The attachment is usually a .zip file that once opened can infect your computer or device with a virus.
Fraudsters will use the name of legitimate Police services and businesses as a tactic to obtain personal information from unsuspecting consumers. Government bodies and police services do not issue traffic notices via email, nor do they request email addresses during a traffic stop.
Warning signs – How to protect yourself:
- Beware of unsolicited emails from individuals or organizations prompting you to click on an attachment or link.
- Watch for spelling and formatting errors.
- Check the embedded hyperlink in the suspicious email by hovering your mouse over the link to verify the address.
- Go with your gut. If an email seems fishy it probably is.
If you think you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1- 888-495-8501 or report online at http://www.antifraudcentre.ca