Alerts about an alleged unpaid parking fine are multiplying via SMS and email, but they do not always come from who they say they are. In Portugal, a message has been reported that uses the name and image of public entities to induce drivers to pay a non-existent fine, taking them to false pages where personal and bank details are requested. The objective is simple: to deceive through fear and urgency.
According to Pplware, a website specializing in technology and current affairs, these campaigns use classic phishing and smishing techniques, adapted to the road context, taking advantage of citizens’ familiarity with traffic notifications and distrust of possible sanctions.
Messages appear official and create a false sense of urgency
The scheme starts with a short and direct message. The text talks about a registered infraction, indicates an amount to be paid and includes a link to “regularize” the situation. In some cases, a reduced deadline or the threat of an increase in the fine is mentioned, which increases the psychological pressure on the recipient.
According to the same source, scammers copy logos, institutional language and even digital signatures to give credibility to the message. The sender appears identified as a public entity linked to traffic, leading many drivers to assume that the communication is legitimate.
The link leads to fake pages that are almost indistinguishable from the real ones
By clicking on the address included in the message, the user is redirected to a website that imitates official State portals. The appearance is careful, with colors, symbols and forms similar to those used by public services. This is when the request for personal data, taxpayer number, bank card information or access credentials arises.
As the same source explains, these pages do not belong to any public entity and only serve to collect sensitive information, which can then be used for direct theft or other fraud.
How true fine notifications work in Portugal
In Portugal, notifications of road traffic offenses follow specific rules. Fines are not communicated via SMS with immediate payment links. Notifications are sent by post or through official channels, such as the electronic address associated with the Finance portal, when applicable.
The National Road Safety Authority (ANSR) has warned that it does not request payments via links sent by message nor does it ask for bank details via email or SMS. Any communication that does so should be viewed with suspicion.
What should you do if you receive one of these messages
If you receive a message indicating a pending fine, the recommendation is clear. Do not click on links, do not make payments and do not provide any personal data. The next step should be to confirm the situation through official channels, directly contacting the entity mentioned in the message.
In the case of ANSR, the official contacts continue to be the telephone number 214 236 800 and the institutional email address. Direct verification allows you to quickly clarify whether or not there is any process in your name.
Anyone who has already entered data or made a payment should immediately contact the bank to block suspicious cards or transactions. It is also important to file a complaint with the authorities so that the case can be registered and investigated.
According to , the speed of reaction can make the difference between a scare and significant financial loss, especially when access to bank accounts or personal identification data is at stake.
Being suspicious is the best form of prevention
These scams exploit the fear of fines and sanctions, but follow known patterns. Unsolicited messages, urgent payment requests and external links are warning signs that should not be ignored.
In a context in which the digitalization of public services advances, digital literacy becomes essential. Always confirming the origin of communications and only using official channels remains the most effective way to avoid falling into this type of scheme.
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