Province warns Manitobans of text message scams

The Manitoba government is warning of a text message phishing scam that is present in the province.

The provincial government is warning the public about fraudulent text messages involving fine payments and tax credits.

According to a news release, the province received reports of text messages impersonating Manitoba Justice that demanded payments for outstanding fines for provincial offences, such as speeding tickets and traffic violations.

According to the release, another phishing scam involves text messages asking recipients to finalize their homeowner’s affordability tax credit by clicking a link.

The province says Manitoba Finance does not verify or finalize tax credits or benefits by text messages and that Manitoba Justice does not send payment requests by text messages.

Anyone who receives these types of text messages should not respond or click on any links, according to the province.

Recipients can report suspicious messages to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.