Fraudulent SMS messages pretending to come from the National Automated Processing Agency for Violations (ANTAI) have been spreading across France, prompting warnings from government authorities. These messages typically claim that a fine must be paid by a specific deadline—often "before midnight"—and threaten legal action if ignored. The messages include a link to a fake website designed to steal personal and banking information. However, the ANTAI has clarified that it never sends fine notices through SMS. Instead, it uses registered postal mail or standard letters to communicate penalties. The fake messages often use alarming language and include either vague or unusually specific amounts, which differ from authentic fine notices. Real notices, whether sent by mail or provided as a PDF, include detailed information such as the license plate number, the date and time of the violation, the location, the type of infraction, the exact fine amount, and the deadlines for payment or contestation. These details are not present in the fraudulent messages, which also lack a legitimate link or reference to a telepayment number. According to the ANTAI, the claims of fines increasing due to an SMS are not based on any official regulations. The countdown mentioned in these messages is not tied to any known administrative rule. The fake websites closely resemble the official ones, using similar colors, logos, and language to appear legitimate. However, they are not affiliated with the government and are designed to deceive users. To verify the authenticity of a fine notice, individuals are advised to use the telepayment number listed on the official paper or PDF notice. Payments should be made through official government websites such as amendes.gouv.fr for general fines, stationnement.gouv.fr for parking violations, and antai.gouv.fr for checking or contesting a fine. These sites require both the telepayment number and a unique key provided in the original notice. If a suspicious website is encountered, it can be reported at www.internet-signalement.gouv.fr. SMS messages can be forwarded to 33700 for investigation. If a payment has already been made, individuals should contact their bank immediately to dispute the transaction and seek reimbursement.