A smishing (SMS phishing) scam is currently circulating in Greece, including Crete, where fraudsters send mass text messages impersonating the Greek Traffic Police (Trochia). The messages falsely claim the recipient has an unpaid traffic fine and include a link to pay it.
Tourists renting cars should be aware: Greek traffic authorities do not notify drivers of fines via SMS with payment links. If you receive such a message on a Greek or roaming SIM, do not tap the link and do not enter any card or personal details.
Delete the message immediately. Legitimate traffic fines in Greece are issued in writing by mail or handed directly by officers at the scene. If you are unsure whether a fine is genuine, contact your car rental company or visit a local police station for verification.
