France toll operators warn of fake SMS scam stealing drivers' bank data

Scammers are exploiting France's free‑flow toll system by sending fraudulent SMS messages that appear to come from legitimate highway operators. The messages claim an unpaid toll and often include the vehicle's licence‑plate number to seem authentic, urging recipients to click a link and enter their banking details on a counterfeit site.

The fraud targets drivers on highways such as the A13, A14 in Normandy and the A79 between Allier and Saône‑et‑Loire. Authorities stress that true toll operators never request payment via SMS or email; legitimate notices are sent by post or can be checked through the operator’s official website or client area. Victims are advised to delete the message, forward it to the free reporting line 33 700, and pay any dues only through official channels or authorised tobacco‑shop kiosks.

The Société des Autoroutes du Nord et de l’Est de la France (Sanef) and other toll companies have issued reminders to help motorists recognise the scam and protect their financial information.