This summer, as holidaymakers hit the roads, scammers are exploiting barrier-free tolls in France. A new system has been in place for several months, particularly on the A13, A14, A4 and A79 motorways. A scanner reads your number plate and you pay later, via an online platform, at a tobacconist's or using an electronic toll tag. Payment must be made within 72 hours to avoid a fine.
But scammers are exploiting this new system, which is still unfamiliar to many people. You receive a text message or email asking you to pay a small amount (usually around €6.80) for an alleged unpaid toll. The message looks credible: it has the motorway company's logo, is written in an official tone and contains a clickable link... but it's a trap.
What should you look out for?
- The message comes from an unknown number or a suspicious email address.
- The amount requested is small, so as not to arouse suspicion.
- The link takes you to a fake website, which is an exact copy of an official toll website.
- You are asked for your bank details to ‘pay quickly’.
What should you do?
- Never click on the link in the text message or email.
- Check the sender and compare with the genuine channels of motorway companies. Official addresses only use domains such as @ulys.com or @vinci-autoroutes.com.
- If in doubt, contact your motorway operator directly via its official website: www.ulys.com
- Forward the suspicious message to suspicious@safeonweb.be.
Have you been the victim of a scam?
- If you have lost money or are the victim of extortion, we advise you to report it to the police. You can report it to your local police.
- Contact your bank and/or Card Stop on 078 170 170 if you have provided bank details, if money has disappeared from your bank account or if you have transferred money to a fraudster. This will enable any fraudulent transactions to be blocked.
