A new SMS fraud, warns the Ministry of Transport. The “trap” that “targets Romanian citizens these days”
The Ministry of Transport sent a statement on Friday in which it “raises the alarm about an SMS fraud campaign targeting Romanian citizens these days”.
In this “new scam attempt”, described by the institution as a “trap”, those targeted receive “an alarming message (often via iMessage or SMS) from an unknown number (ex: Philippines prefix +63), notifying you that you have “traffic violations”.
“Scammers threaten you with 30% penalties if you don't pay urgently and offer you a fake link to a page imitating the official payment site,” the Ministry of Transport warned.
The institution stated that it “does not have the authority to fine drivers and never requests payments via text messages”. At the same time, it drew attention to misleading links and fake emergencies.
“Messages pressuring you to pay 'until midnight' are a clear sign of fraud. Criminals want to make you act on the spur of the moment,” explained the ministry.
Recommendations for citizens
According to the ministry, those who receive such a message should:
- Do not click on the received link;
- Do not enter bank card details or personal data on suspicious websites;
- Block the phone number immediately;
- Delete the conversation and warn those close to you.
“Your online safety depends on vigilance! If you've fallen victim and entered your card details, call your bank immediately to block your payment instrument,” concluded the Ministry of Transport.
Photo source: Ewa Walicka | Dreamstime.com
