Fake e-challan messages: Citizens warned against scammers

fake e-challan messages

Traffic police officials have warned citizens against fake traffic e-challan messages and has urged them to beware of such scammers and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

In an advisory, traffic police authorities taking notice of fake messages have warned that scammers are sending fraudulent e-challan messages from multiple numbers including 8070 and even from the official 9915 number.

Citizens should not trust any link received via SMS. Instead, they must verify traffic fines through official government websites only, according to the officials.

Officials linked the scam to misuse of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) system. Fraudsters are exploiting public awareness about e-challan services to trick users into clicking malicious links.

According to officials, such scams usually aim to steal personal data or banking information. In some cases, users may unknowingly install harmful software on their devices.

Authorities have advised the public to use verified portals for checking challans. For Punjab, citizens can visit the PSCA e-challan website:

https://echallan.psca.gop.pk/?vehicle=

while Islamabad residents should use the Islamabad Police official portal.

https://islamabadpolice.gov.pk/echallan.php

Citizens are urged to report suspicious messages and avoid sharing personal details online.

What is the e-challan

The e-challan system in Islamabad is a digital mechanism to enforce traffic laws in a faster and more transparent way. It replaces traditional paper tickets with automated detection.

The Islamabad Traffic Police uses Safe City cameras and ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) technology to monitor roads, highways and intersections round the clock.

Traffic violations such as overspeeding, signal jumping, riding without a helmet, and mobile phone use while driving are recorded instantly. These are then converted into digital fines linked to the vehicle owner’s registration data.

Key features include:

  • High-resolution Safe City cameras for continuous surveillance
  • ANPR system to identify vehicles through number plates
  • Automatic issuance of e-challans via SMS and online portals

The system aims to improve transparency, ensure fair enforcement, and make it easier for citizens to track and manage traffic fines.