PSCA Seeks Cybercrime Help After Fake e-Challan Scam
The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has launched a formal complaint with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) after scammers cloned its official website and sent fake e-challan alerts to citizens. The authority confirmed that the fraudulent messages were part of a phishing scheme designed to steal money and personal data.
Fake Website and Phishing Messages
According to officials, multiple citizens received text messages claiming they had pending traffic fines. These messages included a fake link that redirected users to a cloned website, urging them to pay immediately. The PSCA clarified that these alerts were not issued by the authority and that the website used in the scam did not belong to the official gop.pk domain.
Criminal Investigation and Initial Findings
PSCA Managing Director Ahsan Younas stated that a technical team traced the fraudulent operation to a man in Karachi who generated both the scam messages and a misleading voice note to increase credibility. The NCCIA has been requested to identify the individuals behind the operation and initiate legal action.
Official Alerts Only From 8070
To prevent further scams, the PSCA launched a large-scale awareness campaign on social media. The authority reminded citizens that all official e-challan information is sent only through the number 8070. Messages containing words like “urgent” or links with unfamiliar domains should be considered suspicious.
Data Misuse Concerns
PSCA Chief Operating Officer Mustansar Feroz revealed that the mobile numbers used in the scam were registered under the name of a woman who had no connection with the fraud. He warned that scammers often acquire SIMs, CNIC details, and phone numbers from unauthorized vendors, describing this trend as alarming and dangerous.
Public Safety Advisory
The PSCA urged citizens to double-check any e-challan notification before making payments. Users should rely solely on official government platforms and avoid interacting with suspicious links. The authority also requested stricter action against the criminals for damaging its reputation and attempting to exploit citizens.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the growing risk of cyber fraud in Pakistan and the urgent need for citizens to stay vigilant. Verification of e-challan details through official channels remains the safest approach to avoid falling victim to phishing scams.
