Police issue warning over fake parking fine scam targeting residents
A warning has been issued amid a rise in fake messages claiming that money is owed for an unpaid parking fine.
Fraudsters are posing as representatives from local councils by sending text messages that link to fake government websites featuring official logos, branding and fonts to appear legitimate.
Victims are asked to provide personal and payment details – including their name, email, phone number, home address and bank card details – to “pay the fine.” However these messages are a scam.
A spokesperson for the North Wales Police Cyber Team, said: “Never click on unverified links within unexpected messages.
“If you’re unsure if a message is genuine contact the organisation that it’s alleging to be from using valid and verified contact details to check if the message in genuine.”
When you receive an unexpected message also consider checking the following –
- Check the URL: If it doesn’t begin with ‘https’ or is different to what you’re expecting, then don’t visit it.
- Check for slight changes in the website address: Scammers will often mimic an official website address, hoping you won’t spot a small typo or slight change to the address.
The spokesperson added: “If you think you’ve lost money due to a scam, contact your bank immediately using the number on the back of your card or by calling 159.”
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