Phony fines: Calgary police issue warning over scam texts

Calgarians are again being targeted by scammers trying to trick victims with parking fines and photo radar tickets that aren’t real.

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) says it has become aware of a new round of scam texts being sent to residents where they are told they must pay outstanding fines or tickets or they will be subject to further penalties.

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In the messages, victims are provided with a link to an “official citation review.”

Police say these are “not legitimate.”

“The CPS, the City of Calgary (and) the Calgary Parking Authority will never send text messages requesting payment for fines. Parking and photo radar tickets are mailed to the registered vehicle owner, including any notices regarding overdue fines,” the service said on X on Tuesday.

CPS advises anyone who receives one of these messages to not click the link or provide the individual with any personal information. The best course of action is to delete the message and not engage with the caller.

It’s also important to report all scam text messages to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Anyone who believes they have lost funds due to a fraudulent text message is asked to call or visit their nearest district office to file a report.