A scammer is running paid advertisements on Facebook claiming people can purchase an annual Hamilton Street Railway bus pass for $3.00.
People who click the scam are taking to a phishing website that claims to a special survey for the Metrolinx PRESTO card.
After “winning” a contest, users are asked to provide their personal information and credit card information to “purchase” a special discount fare card.
The post claims:
“🚍 Big Opportunity in Hamilton! 🚍
In celebration of PRESTO’s anniversary, we are offering you the chance to grab a limited edition PRESTO card and enjoy unlimited rides on public transport for 12 months! 🎉
🌟 Don’t miss this exclusive offer for just 3 CAD! The cards are valid for 12 months and limited to only 500 pieces!
⏳ Get yours now and enjoy unlimited travel across the city!”
The advertisement links to a website, ccripjournala dot com, that was created on September 12, 2024.
As with many scams: if it is too good to be true, it is not true.
Bot Activity on Facebook
The Facebook advertisement includes falsify engagement from bot accounts claiming they’ve received the “deal” and are now riding transit for free.
To learn more about phishing scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Production Details v. 1.0.0 Published: October 16, 2024 Last updated: October 16, 2024 Author: Joey Coleman Update Record v. 1.0.0 original version
Thanks Mr Coleman, figured as much!! The proverbial “too good to be true”!!