Scammers Target Motorists with Phishing SMS Toll Payment Scheme
Drivers Warned About Fake Messages Requesting Payment Information
A new phishing scam is circulating, targeting motorists with fraudulent SMS messages that mimic official toll payment notifications. These deceptive texts aim to steal personal and financial information, urging drivers to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to these malicious tactics.
The Scam Unveiled
Reports indicate that thousands of drivers recently received SMS messages falsely attributed to Ulys Péage, a French toll operator. These messages prompted recipients to pay a supposedly outstanding sum via a provided website link. The amounts requested were often small, such as €6.8, which might not raise immediate suspicion among drivers.
However, these SMS messages are entirely fraudulent. They do not originate from Ulys and are sent randomly to numerous motorists, including some who have never used French motorways.
Scammers are always coming up with new ways to try and steal your money. This time, they’re impersonating toll road companies and sending fake SMS messages. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe: example.com another.com
— World Today News (@worldtodaynews) January 1, 2024
“We inform you that the ULYS brand is currently used as part of a phishing campaign,” a company representative explained. “You may receive fraudulent emails or sms imitating e-mails/SMS Ulys or Vinci Autoroutes (colors, logo, etc.). The hackers behind these campaigns are thus trying to collect personal information and in particular the data from bank card from targeted customers. We invite you not to respond to these fraudulent e -mails/sms and not to click on the links or attachments that they might contain.”
—Ulys Spokesperson
According to recent statistics from the Federal Trade Commission, phishing scams have increased by 30% in the past year, with losses exceeding $10 billion (FTC Report 2024).
Protecting Yourself
The primary objective of the scammers is not to collect the small payment but to obtain motorists’ banking details. Motorists must exercise caution and avoid responding to suspicious SMS messages, emails, or clicking on any embedded links. Always verify the legitimacy of any payment request through official channels before providing any personal information.
Law enforcement agencies advise motorists to report any suspicious activity immediately and to regularly review their bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. Staying informed and cautious is crucial in protecting oneself from these evolving online threats.