🚨 Authorities in Karachi and Punjab have issued urgent warnings after a rise in fake e-challan scams targeting citizens with fraudulent SMS messages demanding immediate payment of traffic fines.
How the Scam Works
According to Karachi Traffic Police, fraudsters are sending SMS messages pretending to be official challan notices. These texts often include fake payment links connected to mobile wallets like Easypaisa.
Police have confirmed that these messages are “fake, misleading and fraudulent” and have no connection with any government department.
Karachi Police Advisory
Citizens are advised:
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Do not click on suspicious links.
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Do not share personal or financial details.
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Report suspicious messages via the Karachi Traffic Police helpline 1915.
Punjab Safe City Authority Warning
The Punjab Safe City Authority has also raised concerns about similar scams. Officials clarified:
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Genuine e-challan SMS are sent only from 8070.
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Authorities never request bank details through SMS.
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Fake messages from other numbers must be treated as scams.
Citizens can safely verify challans through:
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The official Punjab Police challan portal
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ePay Punjab app and website
Government’s Next Steps
Both Karachi and Punjab authorities have promised strict action against those behind the fake e-challan scheme. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and rely only on official channels for challan verification and payment.
Quick Safety Tips
✅ Always check SMS sender ID (8070 is official in Punjab).
✅ Verify challans through government portals only.
✅ Report fraud attempts immediately to police.
