KZN Transport MEC Siboniso Duma warns the public to stay alert against rising fake traffic fine scams that threaten arrest and seek personal banking information.
Image: David Ritchie / File
KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma warns residents about a surge in fake traffic fine scams, urging them to verify communications before making payments.
Duma's warning comes as the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has also alerted motorists to fraudulent SMSes, emails, and fake websites designed to trick people into paying non-existent traffic fines and stealing their personal banking information.
"We are experiencing an influx of complaints and queries about fake traffic fine messages. These come from motorists, including ordinary members of society who do not own vehicles," said Duma.
He stated that many recipients face threats of arrest unless they immediately settle outstanding fines via fraudulent payment links.
Beware of fraudulent SMSes like this one, which falsely claim traffic violations and demand immediate payment. Stay vigilant and verify all communications regarding traffic fines.
Image: Karen Singh
"Individuals are being threatened with arrest and also forced to pay traffic fines through fake links. Such links have been created to steal personal banking information," Duma said.H
In response, Duma has instructed Head of Department Zibusiso Dlamini to work with the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) to educate the public about the scam and legitimate payment channels.
One of the fraudulent SMSes circulating reads: "Your traffic violation has been recorded by the traffic control system. Please pay the amount due immediately", before directing recipients to a suspicious web link.
The RTMC said it had also uncovered scam emails masquerading as official communication from the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS), directing recipients to a fraudulent website that closely resembles a government platform and demanding immediate payment for alleged overdue traffic fines.
"We put it on record that the RTMC, through its online services website, does not send fine notices to motorists. Any fine notice received by a motorist purporting to be from the online NaTIS platform should be treated as a scam," the corporation said.
Duma reminded motorists that legitimate traffic camera fines in KwaZulu-Natal can be paid at the Traffic Camera Office in Pinetown, through PayCity, via SpeedPoint during fine recovery operations, or at the relevant court if a Section 56 written notice has been issued.
He also highlighted the province's Smart Roadblock system, introduced last year, which enables motorists with outstanding fines to settle their accounts during roadside operations.
"We are utilising an advanced digital device carried by RTI. It detects outstanding fines, and offenders are given a chance to make a payment through PayCity using a QR code," Duma said.
The RTMC urged motorists to be vigilant and ensure that any communication regarding traffic fines comes through official channels before making a payment.