Alert for 2026: Fake E-Challan SMS Scam Spreading Rapidly Across Pakistan
Pakistan is currently facing a dangerous surge in fake e-challan SMS scams, where cybercriminals impersonate traffic and law-enforcement authorities to steal money, banking credentials, and personal data. National and provincial institutions including the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA), Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP), and Sindh Police have issued urgent public warnings after thousands of complaints surfaced in early 2026.
These scams are designed to look almost identical to official government messages, making them extremely deceptive—even for tech-savvy users.
🔍 How the Fake E-Challan Scam Operates (Step-by-Step)
Fraudsters use a carefully planned psychological and technical strategy:
1️⃣ Fake “Official” SMS
Victims receive an SMS claiming they have violated traffic laws such as:
- Over-speeding
- Signal jumping
- Lane violation
- Illegal parking
The message often uses official-sounding language, government logos, and references to traffic authorities.
2️⃣ Urgency & Fear Tactics
To force quick action, the SMS includes threats such as:
- Vehicle will be blacklisted
- Driving license will be suspended
- FIR or legal action will be initiated
A 24-hour deadline is commonly mentioned to create panic.
3️⃣ Phishing or Malware Link
The SMS contains a link that looks government-related, such as:
psca-gov-pk.comitp-challan.info- Shortened links like
bit.ly/payfine
⚠️ These links are NOT official government websites.
4️⃣ Data Theft or Malware Infection
Once clicked:
- Users are redirected to a fake payment page asking for:
- Debit/Credit card details
- CNIC number
- Expiry date & CVV
- OR an APK file is downloaded that:
- Steals banking OTPs
- Reads SMS messages
- Gains access to mobile wallets
Within minutes, accounts can be emptied.
✅ Genuine vs Fake E-Challan SMS: How to Spot the Difference
| Feature | Genuine E-Challan SMS | Fake Scam SMS |
|---|---|---|
| Sender ID | Official IDs like 8128, PSCA, ITP | Random 11-digit mobile numbers |
| Website Link | Ends with .gop.pk | Uses .com, .net, or short links |
| Details | Vehicle number, date, location, challan ID | Generic message, no real details |
| Payment Method | e-Pay Punjab, ATM, JazzCash/EasyPaisa (manual entry) | Direct card entry via website |
| Tone | Informative & neutral | Threatening and urgent |
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself from E-Challan Scams
Follow these critical safety steps:
✔ Never Click SMS Links
Do not click any payment link received via SMS—no matter how official it looks.
✔ Use Official Platforms Only
- Punjab: Use the e-Pay Punjab app or official PSCA portal
- Islamabad: Check directly via ITP’s official website
Manually enter your vehicle number to verify any challan.
✔ Never Share Sensitive Information
Government authorities never ask for:
- CNIC via SMS link
- Card CVV or PIN
- OTP codes
✔ Verify Before Paying
If unsure, call 15 (Police Helpline) or Safe City helplines to confirm.
🚑 What To Do If You Become a Victim
If you’ve clicked a link or shared details:
🔴 Contact Your Bank Immediately
- Block your card/account
- Reverse transactions if possible
🔴 Report to FIA Cyber Crime Wing
File a complaint with FIA Cyber Crime Wing:
- Website: nr3c.gov.pk
- Helpline: 1991
🔴 Secure Your Phone
- Uninstall suspicious apps
- Run antivirus scan
- Factory reset if malware was installed
📢 Official Clarification (Important)
The Punjab Safe Cities Authority has clearly stated:
“PSCA, ITP, or any traffic authority never sends direct payment links, APK files, or messages from private mobile numbers.”
Any SMS asking for instant payment through a link is 100% fake.
🧠 Final Verdict: Stay Alert, Stay Safe
The fake e-challan scam is one of Pakistan’s most sophisticated digital frauds in 2026, exploiting fear, urgency, and trust in government institutions. Awareness is your strongest defense.
🔐 Remember:
