The message threatens fines and license suspensions for non-payment.
OPP say that some of these messages are sent to people who have never even used the toll highway.
Const. Dan Cook says that Hwy 407 will never send text messages from a phone number asking for payment.
“When the 407 does send a text message, they’ll send it from a six-digit short code, not a phone number, and it will never include the directed payment link. If you receive any automated phone calls, that is simply for instructions to log into My Account to pay the bill… You will not be asked for any personal information and it will be an automated phone call.”
Cook says that although this scam is related to Highway 407, similar scams can happen, such as claims about unpaid parking or speeding tickets.
OPP says to be cautious when receiving communication from an alleged business or organization.
If something does not seem right, call or visit the business directly to confirm it is not a fraud.
Const. Cook shared some further tips on how to recognize legitimate communication from the 407. He added that people should visit the 407 website directly for more tips.
- The 407 does send text messages from a six-digit short code and will include a secure payment web page. The text messages never include a direct link to pay.
- If you receive an automated phone call instructions will be given to log into MyAccount to pay the bill.
- Emails are only sent from [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected].
- The 407 never asks for passwords, PINs or credit cards.
- Communication will never contain a link to any web domain other then 407 etr.com.
- Never click a link you suspect is a scam.
- Log into MyAccount to confirm if you have a balance or make payments.
