There has been an increase of phishing scams this holiday season, prompting local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) to remind residents to exercise caution when receiving electronic messages.
Of particular note, the CAFC notes an increase in texts and emails alleging the receiver has unpaid Hwy. 407 tolls. Messages encourage the recipient to avoid fines and “secure your driver’s licence” by clicking on a link to pay the toll online.
Phishing scams use tactics to trick victims into providing personal information by clicking on links. This can include email or website spoofing, offers or demand for money, claims a package has been delayed or lost, or that an online subscription needs to be updated.
“These scams are frequently modified to appear current based on upcoming holidays, world events or government initiatives such as incentive payments,” states a Guelph police news release.
“Anyone receiving such a message should ignore and delete it and never click on a link or QR code.
“If you are concerned the message may be legitimate, please independently find contact information for the involved company or agency and initiate contact yourself. Do not use any contact information sent through an unsolicited message as these could be linked back to the scammers.”
