Karachi Traffic Police have issued a public warning about fraudulent SMS messages circulating among residents ahead of the official launch of the faceless e-challan system. Although the rollout of the system is still a few days away, scammers have started sending messages demanding immediate payment of fines. According to Karachi Traffic Police, these messages are completely fake, misleading and have no association with the police or any government agency. The rise in such attempts highlights how opportunistic actors exploit new digital services to mislead citizens.
In a recent advisory, officials stated that these fraudulent messages falsely link alleged fines to mobile payment services such as Easypaisa, urging unsuspecting recipients to make payments through unverified channels. Karachi Traffic Police clarified that no SMS is sent from personal numbers demanding fine payments. Citizens have been advised to treat such messages with caution, refrain from sharing personal information or making payments through unverified links, and report any suspected fraud or confusion by contacting the Traffic Police Helpline at 1915. This proactive communication is part of an ongoing effort to protect residents from scams coinciding with the launch of new digital enforcement systems.
The faceless e-challan system, developed by Karachi Traffic Police in collaboration with Lok Suhayta, is scheduled to officially go live on October 1. Under this system, traffic violations will be recorded automatically through advanced cameras installed across the city, and challans supported by photographic or video evidence will be delivered directly to citizens’ homes without any third-party involvement. According to a Traffic Police spokesperson, this approach is designed to create greater transparency and fairness in traffic law enforcement while reducing opportunities for manipulation.
Alongside the system rollout, Karachi Traffic Police and volunteers are conducting an extensive awareness campaign across the city. Pamphlets are being distributed at traffic signals and other high-traffic locations to educate drivers about the new system, the importance of traffic laws and road safety, and how the automated ticketing process works. Volunteers, lady constables, and students from educational institutions are taking part in the outreach effort, reinforcing the message that compliance with traffic rules benefits both individuals and the wider community. The campaign also emphasizes the need for citizens to remain vigilant against scams, which often appear around the launch of new digital public services.
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