Punjab Traffic Police have warned citizens against a fake driving license website called dastakpunjab.online which falsely claims driving licenses can be obtained at home without a driving test and are paid for in cash.
A viral WhatsApp message that originated on January 9 has created confusion among citizens by claiming residents of Punjab can apply for a driving license online without an in-person driving test.
According to the message, applicants have to submit personal details and pay fees through mobile wallets such as JazzCash and Easypaisa.
Upon clicking the website link, a page called ‘Driving License Management System’ appears with a motto that reads ‘a vision by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’.
Punjab government fact checks
Government officials have confirmed the message is fake and the website is fraudulent. They have also stated that the website dastakpunjab.online has no connection to the government of Punjab.
The only valid website for driving license related services is dastak.punjab.gov.pk. It is important to note that the official domain uses ‘gov’ unlike the fraudulent domain.
Punjab Traffic Police spokesperson, Muhammad Usman Qureshi said that the fraudulent website had already been identified as fake and flagged.
He added that first time applicants are required to visit traffic police centers physically for photographs, biometric verification, video recording and a driving test.
He finally clarified that this process cannot be conducted online. Authorities have also advised against clicking on unfamiliar links, especially those of public services.
They encourage citizens to report suspicious websites to ensure swift action can be taken as soon as possible.
