City receives 100 inquiries about automated speed camera text scam

The city is alerting residents about a new text message scam that is seeking payment related to an automated speed camera.

The fraudulent message indicates that an automated speed camera recorded the vehicle exceeding the speed limit in a school zone — providing a link for immediate payment.

As of June 26, Ottawa has received around 100 inquiries and reports in relation to the speed camera text scam, wrote Cyril Rogers, Interim General Manager and Chief Financial Officer, Finance and Corporate Services with the City of Ottawa, in an email response to CityNews.

“The City of Ottawa is aware of the reports regarding suspicious Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE)-related text messages asking for payments related to alleged speeding,” said Rogers. “The recent volume of reports is related to scammers taking advantage of the expansion of the ASE program.

For those who have received a similar text message posing as the city, residents are advised to delete the message and avoid clicking on any links or providing personal or financial information, wrote the Ottawa in a news release.

Staff are reminding residents that they will not send text messages about payments or balances owing.

Residents should keep in mind that text messages are not authorized by the City, and Ottawa will not solicit payments or communicate via text messages, Rogers noted.

The city is aware there are several scams of similar nature, each year. Ottawa reports such incidents to the Canadian and Ontario Anti-Fraud authorities. 

Additionally, the municipality works to inform the public of scam or fraud incidents through Public Service Announcements, feature stories and on social media platforms, Rogers said.

Ottawa is advising those who may be a victim of fraud, to file a report with the Ottawa Police Service’s online reporting tool.

“The City will be issuing communications through social media on a regular basis to warn, remind and advise members of the public about these scams, and further information in line with Canadian and Ontario guidance, in the event a suspicious text message is received,” he added.