The Saskatchewan RCMP are warning residents about a circulating text-message scam that falsely claims recipients have an outstanding traffic citation and directs them to a fake online payment link.
What officials have reported
Police say they have received multiple reports of the fraudulent messages across the province, including a recent cluster in the Prince Albert area. The texts identify the sender as the Provincial Court of Saskatchewan and attempt to prompt recipients to click a link and submit payment.
RCMP investigators noted the messages originated from phone numbers that used a +44 country code — the United Kingdom — which officers say is an indicator the texts are not legitimate.
RCMP advice to the public
Mounties are urging people to take the following precautions if they receive one of these messages:
- Do not click links in unsolicited texts claiming to be traffic or court fines.
- Do not provide personal information or payment details in response to such messages.
- Block the originating number and keep records of the text message(s).
- Contact your local RCMP detachment at 310‑RCMP if you are unsure whether a message is legitimate or if you believe you are a victim of fraud.
- Report suspected fraud to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre at 1‑888‑495‑8501 or via its online reporting system.
Why this scam works
Scams that impersonate government agencies or courts rely on urgency and fear to prompt quick action. Fake notices about fines or licence suspensions are designed to push recipients to make an immediate payment rather than verify the claim. RCMP say the use of an international area code — in this instance +44 — is one clue the message did not originate from a provincial agency.
Police also reminded the public that legitimate government and court communications will typically use official channels and will not ask for payment by gift card or obscure online portals sent by text.
Investigations and next steps
Saskatchewan RCMP confirmed they are investigating the incidents. No further details about suspects or the scope of the fraud were released. Authorities continue to collect reports to track patterns and identify the sources of the messages.
| Action | Contact / Resource |
|---|---|
| Local RCMP (non-emergency verification) | 310‑RCMP |
| Report suspected scam | Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre: 1‑888‑495‑8501 |
Practical tips for staying safe
Beyond the immediate RCMP guidance, residents can reduce their risk by taking a few routine steps when they receive unexpected communications:
- Verify claims through known, official phone numbers or websites rather than any link provided in the message.
- Enable two-factor authentication and use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
- Keep screenshots or copies of suspicious messages to share with police or your financial institution if fraud occurs.
Saskatchewan RCMP emphasise that anyone uncertain about a message’s legitimacy should not respond to the sender and should contact law enforcement or the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre for guidance. The investigation into this traffic-citation text scam is ongoing.
Residents who have information about this scam or who believe they have been targeted are asked to contact their local RCMP detachment at 310‑RCMP or report to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre at 1‑888‑495‑8501.
