Punjab Alerts Public About Fake E-Challan SMS Messages

The Punjab Safe City Authority has issued a warning about fraudulent e-challan messages circulating in the region. Citizens have been receiving fake SMS alerts that claim to be official e-challans, asking for payments or personal details. The authority cautioned the public not to share any bank information or make payments through these messages.

A spokesperson from the Safe City Authority clarified that authentic e-challan messages are only sent from the official Punjab government number, 8070. Any communication from a different number should be treated with suspicion. Scammers have been known to send links in these fraudulent messages, urging recipients to make payments and subsequently withdrawing money illegally.

The authority emphasized that no personal or bank details will ever be requested through SMS by the Safe City Authority. They reassured citizens that all services provided by the authority, including e-challans, are free of charge. Genuine e-challan messages contain details like the time, location, and nature of the violation, which should help people verify the authenticity.

The Punjab Safe City Authority urged individuals to remain cautious and avoid clicking on any unknown links. In case of any suspicious messages, residents are advised to contact the helpline 15 or the FIA Cyber Wing immediately. The authority has pledged to take strict action against anyone involved in scamming people using their name.

The advisory serves as a timely reminder for the public to be vigilant and protect themselves from digital fraud.

READ MORE : Karachi Collects Rs 25 Million Through E-Challan System

Karachi’s e-challan system has raised Rs 25 million in fines since its launch, as revealed in a recent meeting chaired by IG Sindh, Ghulam Nabi Memon. The meeting reviewed the system’s performance and plans for its expansion. It was reported that over 23,000 citizens have visited facilitation centers since the introduction of e-tickets in the city. The initiative aims to modernize traffic enforcement and improve public compliance.

The DIG Traffic presented a briefing showing that fewer than 200 citizens have contested their e-challans. Notably, 90% of the fines issued have been waived. This reflects the system’s focus on education rather than penalties. Around 4,000 traffic violations have led to the collection of Rs 25 million in fines so far, signaling the system’s effectiveness.