Watch out, scam! Fake emails and phishing text messages for free-flow tolls in France - how to protect yourself

Das neue Free‑Flow‑Mautsystems in Frankreich birgt nicht nur die Gefahr, das Bezahlen zu vergessen – nun taucht offenbar auch noch eine neue Betrugsmasche auf. Kriminelle nutzen das schrankenlose System, um sich mit gefälschten SMS und E‑Mails Zahlungen von Reisenden zu erschleichen. Das berichten unter anderem die französische Zeitung Le Figaro sowie das Portal PDLV in kürzlich erschienenen Artikeln.

How does the scam work?

• Users receive text messages/emails with a reference to an “outstanding toll balance” - usually a small amount of less than 10 euros - including a link to the alleged payment option.

• Clicking on this link opens a scam page that imitates official toll company pages and requests personal data and bank information.

• The emails and text messages can look deceptively real - according to a report in BILD, even colors and logos are cleverly imitated.

How to protect yourself

• Official e-mails only come from domains such as @ulys.com, @vinci-autoroutes.com etc., SMS only from senders such as “VINCI” or “36035” (never from 06/07 numbers). Pay close attention to the details and spelling.

• It is best not to click on any links at all, but rather log in directly to the official Ulys website or check the operator's website (Sanef, Aliae).

• Pay particular attention to the following points:

  • Sender domain

  • URL (https:// + lock symbol)

  • Spelling mistakes, unprofessional design

  • Alarmist tone, pressure to pay ulys.com

• In case of doubt: mark the e-mail as spam, report attempted fraud via alerte.phishing.ulys@vinci-autoroutes.com or inform the authorities (PHAROS/Signal-Spam).

Free-flow toll: how it works (compact)

• Barrier-free system: cameras record your license plate - lane remains open.

• Operators measure A13, A14, A4, A79 etc. (expansion planned until 2027)

• Payment within 72 hours: via toll box (Ulys, Bip & Go), operator website (Sanef, Aliae), vending machines or tobacco stores.

What happens in the event of non-payment?

• Reminder + 10 € penalty directly after 72 h.

• Then up to € 90 after 15 days, up to € 375 after 60 days - also enforceable by debt collection in Germany.

Tips for campers

• Use a toll box - such as Ulys or Bip & Go - it saves frustration, time and minimizes the risk of fraud.

• Check the operator page regularly and remember your password.

• Check every message very carefully and, if in doubt, log in directly with the toll operator rather than clicking on a dubious link.

Cover picture: © ChiccoDodiFC / Depositphotos.com