HALDIMAND — Haldimand OPP would like to warn the public about an active scam that could create some headaches and financial loss for you if you happen to fall victim.
Several people have reported that they received text messages from scammers notifying them that the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) and Service Canada had validation permit (or valtag) refunds for them. A hyperlink was attached in the text message and the victims clicked onto the link. Upon clicking onto the link, the victims were asked to provide PIN numbers and passwords.
Fortunately, all the victims contacted their banks and as a result, their bank cards were cancelled prior to sustaining any monetary loss. Do not click on the link. The MTO does not send text messages or email messages to the public.
Haldimand OPP would like to remind the public that Smishing scams, such as this one, are an active method for scammers. Smishing is a phishing cybersecurity attack carried out over mobile text messaging, also known as SMS phishing.
