It’s a Fine scam
If you are going to send an email traffic fine scam to anyone try to avoid sending one to the spouse of a Road Policing Unit officer.
Multiple residents contacted the Mackay Police District Road Policing Unit by telephone yesterday to advise that they have received an email claiming that the recipient had been fined and encouraging them to click a link to view photo proof. Further reports were also received in other areas of Queensland.
The title of the email that was recieved was “Re:Notification 715917018” but it is likely to vary. The police officer’s spouse immediately had concerns, so screen shot the message and forwarded it to local officers. If you click the link and you will discover malware (malicious software) – likely ransomware!
A screenshot of the scam email.
This is not a legitimate law enforcement email. The email in circulation does not even claim to be from a specific law enforcement agency. It does not even specify an individual recipient.
Queensland Police Service traffic offence emails will only be generated to a person if…
- you have been stopped for a traffic offence by a police officer
- you agree to the receipt of an email from the Queensland Police Service to finalise a fine
Police encourage any one who receives an email like the one in the image not to respond in any way. Do not click any links or attachments in the email – if you have already, or you do – expect problems. Have your computer systems properly scanned for malware and report the loss of any personal information or ransomware incidents through A.C.O.R.N (the Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network)
With the sudden appearance of this email in the Mackay district only yesterday, we are expecting to see more of it. Please share this information and image across your social media forums and let’s all contribute to reducing the chances of our friends and colleagues falling victim.
