Toll SMS scam in France: authorities alert motorists
Scammers are exploiting France's new free-flow toll system to send fraudulent SMS messages and emails demanding toll payments in order to steal motorists' bank details.
Toll SMS scam in France: authorities alert motorists
Fraudsters are currently exploiting France's free-flow toll system ("péage en flux libre") to steal motorists' banking details, according to the media outlet 20 Minuten.
The German Federal Foreign Office has issued a warning to travellers. They are receiving SMS messages or emails that appear to come from official operators such as Ulys, Vinci Autoroutes or Sanef. The communications indicate that a small amount of toll remains outstanding. The scammers sometimes threaten surcharges or account blocking.
A link contained in the message directs to a counterfeit website. If the user enters their bank or credit card details, these fall directly into the hands of the fraudsters.
The free-flow toll system operates without physical barriers. Drivers must settle the charges within 72 hours, either electronically or at service areas. The system is already in place on several sections, including the A13 and A14 motorways between Paris and Caen, the A4 near Boulay, and the A79 between Montmarault and Digoin. In case of non-payment within the set timeframe, a fine of 90 euros applies. If this is not paid within two months, the amount can rise to 375 euros, according to the official Service-public.fr website.
The existing time pressure makes the deception particularly insidious: many motorists seek to act quickly to avoid penalties.
To protect themselves, it is recommended never to click on links in suspicious messages. Legitimate payment requests are processed through secure user accounts of official operators, never through direct payment links. According to the TCS, legitimate SMS messages come exclusively from the number 36035 or from VINCI operator. Official emails end with domains such as @ulys.com or @vinci-autoroutes.com. In case of doubt, one should contact the toll operator directly or pay via the official website.
Source: 20 Minuten