HIGHLAND Council has warned residents about a fake parking ticket scam text.
Texts are being sent to local residents claiming to have been issued by “a local council” issuing a parking fine.
The fraudulent texts claims that if the fine is not paid promptly then a “charge certificate” will be issued leading to a 50% increase and court costs.
The text messages states recipients have 28 days to settle the 'fine' and gives a link to click on in order to pay.
Highland Council Trading Standards team leader, Mark McGinty said: “The text is worded in such a way as to escalate pressure on the reader to pay quickly as things will only get worse if they don’t.
“I’d urge anyone who receives such a text to just take a moment to think about it.
"Ask yourself about your vehicle, where you have parked, is there a link between your vehicle and your mobile phone number? Which Council is it? Of course, it’s not just motorists as these texts are sent to any mobile telephone number."
He advises that if anyone receives a suspicious text to not “click on any links or give out any personal or bank details.
“Suspicious texts can be reported to mobile providers on 7726, this allows them to identify scam texts and block the numbers they use. Also make your friends and family aware, you will not be the only person to be sent this.”
He adds, “We have seen a number of these texts sent to various people who have contacted our office.
“This is not how Highland Council conducts business. We do not send texts and our advice is to ignore any texts of this type.
“The Highland Council will contact you regarding a PCN by post or email. If you have been issued a PCN by The Highland Council, you should visit our website (www.highland.gov.uk) for the required information.”
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