ICBC warns Metro Vancouver customers about scam text messages
ICBC is warning customers across British Columbia to be on high alert for fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the insurer and demanding payment for fake driving violations.
On Sept. 3, ICBC confirmed that customers are receiving scam texts urging them to make payments or click on links.
The corporation said these texts are not legitimate and should be deleted immediately.
“We don’t contact customers via text about driving infractions or outstanding debt. We also don’t ask customers to confirm their identity or make payments via links in a text message,” ICBC said in the release.
Example of a fraudulent ICBC text message demanding payment for a fake violation. (ICBC)
The warning comes after Sidney/North Saanich RCMP reported that more than 30 people recently attended their local ICBC office after receiving similar scam texts.
Now, Metro Vancouver residents, including a Daily Hive staff member, are reporting the same messages appearing on their phones.
ICBC said in the release that it is working with an external cybersecurity company to report and remove fraudulent websites tied to the scam and is updating customers via its website and social media channels.
The insurer is urging people to delete suspicious texts without clicking on links, verify they are on ICBC’s official website before logging in, and never share personal or financial details in response to unsolicited messages.
Police encourage anyone impacted by the scam to contact their local detachment and report incidents to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
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