The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has warned citizens about an increase in digital fraud involving fake e-challan SMS messages and urged the public to remain cautious.
A PSCA spokesperson said fraudsters are sending messages from different mobile numbers containing fake links to steal banking information and financial details. He clarified that official e-challan messages are sent only from “9915” and do not include any links or instructions for online payments.
The spokesperson said any message, even if it appears to come from “9915,” should be treated as suspicious if it asks for bank account details, ATM card information or other financial data, as PSCA does not request such information through SMS.
Citizens have been advised not to click on unknown links or make payments through unverified websites. The spokesperson said e-challan verification should be done only through the official PSCA website, while payments must be made via e-Pay Punjab after generating a PSID.
He added that all service providers have been informed to help prevent such fraud, while action has been stepped up against those operating fake websites in the name of Safe City.
Citizens can contact Helpline 15 by selecting option 6 for information related to e-challan, the spokesperson said, adding that PSCA is taking measures to protect the public from fraudulent activities.
