Fake phone bill scam making the rounds in Mississauga and Brampton

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Published August 26, 2023 at 11:02 am

grandparent scam OPP

A realistic phone bill scam is fooling some residents in Mississauga, Brampton and across the GTA.

Some people have recently received a text from the Canadian mobile network provider “Fido,” claiming that their monthly bill is now available.

The text also provides an account number, payment amount, and deadline for the customer.

Two separate links are included at the end of the text message where the customer can view their bill and another is a website where the payment can be made.

For anyone who is not signed up as a Fido member, will instantly know that the message is a “phishing” scam and will most likely avoid clicking on any links.

Those who are a registered client with Fido might have a difficult time figuring out the authenticity of the text message.

According to Fido’s website, the company shares information on how customers can protect themselves from becoming a victim of text message scams:

  • Legitimate businesses will not send out text messages with URL links to a different site prompting clients to enter their banking information.
  • Look for typos or spelling errors in URL’s or email addresses. Scam artists often register domains with minor variations like www.ffido.ca.
  • Check for spelling and grammar errors in the message. Most reputable companies have editors who review everything before sending it out.

Fido also mentions that their customers have the option of blocking the spam message by forwarding the text to 7726.

Peel Regional Police are also advising people to not reply to these messages and delete them as any response could alert scammers that your number is active, prompting further spam messages.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre who keeps track of major scams and frauds throughout the country, are urging residents to never share personal or financial information with unverified people or groups.

If you feel you have fallen victim to a scam, you can report the incident by contacting the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre (CAFC) at 1-888-495-8501.

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