Ottawa

Ottawa police warn new email scam issues fake traffic tickets

If you receive a traffic ticket in your email inbox, don't pay because it's a scam, Ottawa police are warning.

Email asks for immediate payment through an internal link

A hand is seen holding a credit card beside a laptop.
2 step authentication for online banking has been recommended in the U.S. for 14 years. It's been in place in some European countries longer than that. Canada still does not require it. (iStock)

If you receive a traffic ticket in your email inbox, don't pay because it's a scam, Ottawa police are warning.

Police issued the warning Thursday, noting that the service does not issue traffic tickets via email and that officers do not ask for email addresses during a traffic stop.

But a new scam targeting people in Ottawa, as well as other cities, sends fake traffic tickets and asks for immediate payment through a link in the email. Police warn that those who click on the link are asked to enter personal information.

For more information or to report a suspected scam, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or call 1-888-495-8501.