Scammers are exploiting France's new barrier-free motorway toll system by sending payment requests via text and email. Here's how the fraud works and how drivers can avoid it while travelling this summer.
France's expanding network of barrier-free motorway tolls has led to a rise in scams targeting motorists, with scammers posing as toll operators to steal bank details.
The scam takes advantage of France's free-flow tolling system, which has been introduced on several motorway sections, including parts of the A13, A14, A79 and A4. Unlike traditional toll roads, free-flow routes have no barriers. Instead, overhead cameras record vehicle number plates as drivers pass through, allowing motorists to pay later online.
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Drivers generally have 72 hours to pay the toll before penalties begin to apply. The fine starts at €10 before increasing to €90 and eventually €375 if the payment remains outstanding for more than two months.
