Fake text messages are being sent out in GNR’s name
Portugal’s GNR military police force has warned that fake text messages are being sent out to people in its name.
Several people have reportedly received a text message stating, “Your vehicle is marked for impoundment from today due to unpaid fines, pay now,” followed by payment details purportedly from the GNR.
The police force has released a statement clarifying that this message is “FALSE” and a scam attempt.
“The GNR does not send text messages to collect payments. Recipients of such messages should immediately report them to the police,” it says, providing a list of recommendations to follow in these cases: “avoid accepting unfamiliar payment methods or following instructions from strangers; verify any new payment service with their bank before use; never associate or add an unfamiliar or unrecognised phone number to banking services; refrain from sharing personal or confidential information via email or text; avoid clicking on links received via email or text; and regularly check bank account statements.”
GNR police add that victims of fraud should report the crime to their local police station. Reports can also be filed online. “Reporting such crimes is crucial for effective monitoring and prevention,” says GNR.
