The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) issued a public alert after receiving multiple complaints about fraudulent e-challan text messages being sent to citizens from unauthorized numbers.
According to a PSCA spokesperson, scammers are circulating fake e-challan notifications from the number 8070 in an attempt to deceive the public. He clarified that official e-challan SMS notifications are sent exclusively from the Punjab government designated number, 9915.
The spokesperson emphasized that Safe City officials never request cash payments, bank account information, or debit or credit card details through SMS. Citizens were strongly advised not to click on suspicious links or make payments through unverified websites.
He further explained that an authentic e-challan message always includes complete details of the violation, such as the time, location, and nature of the traffic offense.
The authority urged citizens to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious or fraudulent messages by calling the Emergency Helpline at 15 or contacting the FIA Cyber Crime Wing.
