The convincing scam includes a link which takes the user to a fake page for Garda Fixed Charge Notice Payments, where they are encouraged to type in bank details to pay the fine
Scam caller(Image: Getty Images)
An Garda Síochána has issued an urgent warning about criminals impersonating Gardai who are sending fake speeding fines via text to trick people.
There is no shortage of cyber scammers who seem to always be on the hunt for their next victim. Whether it’s someone ringing you up pretending to be from Amazon or an email asking you to pay a funds release fee that will magically make millions of euros appear in your account, there are many different angles scammers will approach from to try and get access to your hard-earned cash.
And now, An Garda Síochána is trying to raise awareness of an impersonation scam being sent to people by sharing the fraudulent text online with the caption: “Gardaí are aware of a fraudulent text message currently circulating requesting payment for unpaid Fixed Charge Notice speeding fines.
“This is a fraudulent message sent by criminals. An Garda Síochána will never contact you in this way.”
A screenshot of the scam text, claiming to be from ‘Garda Fines’, reads: “Garda Fines – Deadline Notice.
“Final reminder for your speeding ticket, FCN-992161. Your ticket is about to expire (more than 28 days have passed). We recommend you pay it within 24 hours.”
The message includes a link that, when clicked, takes the user to a convincing-looking page for Garda Fixed Charge Notice Payments. The fake website includes a countdown timer showing how much time is left to pay the ‘fine’, the recorded speed of the car, the date of the violation, and the €80 ‘fine’ itself.
It also says that if the fine is not paid before the deadline, the amount could be increased and the debt registered.
You should always report it to your local Garda Station if you believe you have been the victim of an online scam or fraud.
Earlier this year, Gardaí warned parents about a phone scam circulating, in which scammers sent text messages impersonating children. This type of scam has been doing the rounds for several years, with the scammer commonly pretending to be a parent’s child or grandchild. The fraudster often claims to be in some sort of trouble, stating that their online bank account isn’t working or that their phone or bag has been stolen, in order to extort money or personal information from the unsuspecting victim. You can read more about it by clicking here.
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