Freeways : Beware of SMS toll payment scams targeting motorists
SMS scams targeting freeway users are on the increase, taking advantage of the confusion linked to the new free-flow toll systems. These fraudulent messages imitate official notifications to induce motorists to pay false toll amounts. This article explains how these scams work, why they are so convincing, how to spot them and how to protect yourself effectively.
Why is the SMS toll scam particularly effective today?
With the introduction of free-flow tolls on certain freeways, motorists' habits have been turned upside down, creating a breeding ground for scams. Unlike tolls with barriers, where payment is immediate and clearly identified, without an electronic toll tag the new model is based on deferred payment, made via the Internet after passing through the automated control gates. This transition is generating a great deal of uncertainty among users, which fraudsters are exploiting by sending false SMS messages urging immediate payment of a supposedly unpaid toll.
Fraudsters play on this uncertainty to create convincing messages, often accompanied by booby-trapped links. It's important to remember that for the A13 and A14 freeways, only the official Sanef site allows genuine payment, while for the A79, the Aliae site is the one to use. On the Fulli side, we only send SMS messages in the event of unpaid tolls, and the visible sender is “Fulli”. In addition, it is essential to check the destination URL, which must end with “fulli.com”, regardless of the link visible in the SMS.
In this fast-changing environment, heightened vigilance is called for: toll
How do these phishing campaigns work?
Fraudulent SMS messages designed to extort money from motorists exploit well-honed systems designed to fool even the most cautious users. To help you identify these phishing attempts, here is a list of recurring elements found in these deceptive messages:
Spoofed sender: fraudsters use sender names close to official operators. It's important to note that the sender displayed can be easily falsified.Alarmist tone: messages are often urgently worded, with formulations such as “Last reminder”, “Payment pending under penalty of fine”, or “Additional charges in the event of non-payment”. Masked fraudulent links: although the visible URL may seem reassuring, the actual redirect link often hides a dubious address. Some messages may display the correct URL but actually redirect to fraudulent domains. It's vital to check the actual destination URL by looking it up in the browser and making sure it ends with the official domain, such as “fulli.com” for Fulli communications.Invented reference: SMS messages often display a fictitious “file number” or “route reference”, used to lend credence to the message and encourage clicks. This information is fabricated, but appears official.
I'm a victim even though I'm not a Télépéage customer...
These fraud attempts affect everyone. The hackers have access to large databases from other sources. These databases enable them to send SMS messages to thousands of people with cell phones. In doing so, they intend to target electronic toll collection customers.
What should I do if I receive an SMS asking me to pay?
In a context marked by the rise in SMS fraud, it is vital to adopt informed reflexes to secure your payments. The following table clearly sets out the actions to be taken and those to be avoided when dealing with a message or link received concerning a toll payment.
Behaviors | TO DO | TO AVOID |
Receipt of an SMS requesting payment | Check if a trip has been made recently | Pay immediately without questioning the source |
Sender analysis | Make sure it is the company you are a customer of. The sender's name is “Fulli” for customers in the event of real non-payment. | Rely on a close or unofficial name (e.g. “Toll service”) |
Checking the link | Check that the destination URL ends with “fulli.com”. | Rely on the link displayed only in the SMS |
Action in case of doubt | Manually enter the address of sanef.com, aliae.com or fulli.com | Click directly on the link without verification |
Reacting to an urgent tone | Step back and read the content carefully | Being intimidated by the threat of an immediate fine |
Confirmation channel | Consult your customer account on the official website or contact customer service | Reply directly to the SMS or call a number in the message |
Electronic toll badge = secure payment
If you don't yet have an electronic toll tag, this is the most secure way to pay the free-flow toll. You pass under the free-flow toll gantry without stopping. The vehicle is automatically identified. The vehicle's passage is recorded by sensors that continuously scan the lanes. At the end of the free-flow freeway, a gantry identifies and calculates your entire journey. The electronic toll tag allows you to pay securely and automatically on your next bill.
