The Lethbridge Police Service is advising the public of a text scam. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge Police warning of photo radar text scam

Jul 11, 2025 | 9:20 AM

Residents of Lethbridge are being advised of a new take on a common phishing scam that has been reported in the community.

The Lethbridge Police Service says people have been receiving text messages from “Alberta Drive Safe,” “Safe Roads Alberta,” or the “City of Lethbridge,” stating that they have an unpaid ticket from photo radar.

The recipient is then directed to open a link to pay the fine.

LPS says never to open these kinds of links as they are part of a scam.

“Legitimate Lethbridge Photo Radar Ticketing does NOT send texts for unpaid tickets. Tickets are mailed to the registered owner address and payment and non-payments are dealt with by Alberta Courts and Alberta Registries. Registered owners receive a Notice of Conviction to their address and overdue payments are attached to vehicle registration.”

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Some tips or info that can help to protect yourself against scams include:

• Photo Radar tickets are mailed out to the registered owner of a vehicle
• If no payment is received, the fine will be levied against the registration of the vehicle
• Government agencies will not send out text messages with links requesting information or payment
• If you receive an unsolicited text or email with a link attached, never click the link
• If you think you may have an unpaid ticket, contact your local authority or registration center to verify
• Do not provide any money or personal information
• Delete the text or email right away

You can search to see if you have a ticket at: https://traffictickets.alberta.ca/

OR check for overdue fines and more information regarding the scam at: https://www.alberta.ca/fines-enforcement-program