Police advise citizens to protect against new "Smishing" / Text Scam
The Lethbridge Police Service has identified a new scam targeting citizens via text message. Citizens may receive a text message claiming to be from the Canadian Ministry of Transportation. The message advises the citizen that they have an outstanding parking ticket with a link to pay the fine online. This is a SCAM!
Protect yourself from "Smishing" / Text Message Scams:
- Never respond to unsolicited text messages
- Delete the text immediately
- Never click any links in the text message
- Never send money to a third party you do not know
- Verify information with a valid and trusted source.
- For instance, attend a local registry to confirm if you have any unpaid fines. Contact the City of Lethbridge to ask about parking tickets.
Contact
Lethbridge Police Service
135 1 Avenue South
Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0A1
Hours for public access:
Monday to Friday - 7:30 am to 4:00 pm
Closed weekends and statutory holidays
Non-Emergency Phone: 403-328-4444
General Inquiries Phone: 403-327-2210
Email: General Inquiries
(Not monitored 24/7. Call 403-328-4444 to report a crime or suspicious activity.)
BE ADVISED:
Reports made to Lethbridge Police phone lines, emails or social media channels cannot be submitted anonymously or confidentially. All messages are recorded and subject to full disclosure in court.
To report a crime anonymously:
- Attend the Lethbridge Police Service in-person to speak with an officer
- Contact Crime Stoppers to provide a tip about an unsolved case or suspected criminal activity