Beware Of Fake E-Challan SMS: Real E-Challan Is Issued Only From 8070 in 2025
Beware Of Fake E-Challan SMS: Real E-Challan Is Issued Only From 8070 in 2025. In recent months, citizens of Punjab, including major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan, have reported an alarming rise in fake e-challan SMS targeting unsuspecting motorists. These fraudulent messages often threaten users with fines and urge them to click on suspicious links or transfer money. To protect the public from financial loss and personal data theft, the Punjab Safe City Authority (PSCA) has issued an important warning: authentic e-challan messages are sent only from 8070, the official Punjab government number. In this article, we provide a complete guide to identifying real e-challans, understanding the fraudsters’ modus operandi, and safely paying fines online in 2025.
Punjab Safe City Authority’s Stance on Fake E-Challan SMS
According to PSCA officials:
- Genuine e-challan SMS are sent exclusively from 8070.
- Any SMS claiming to be an e-challan from numbers other than 8070 should be considered fraudulent.
- Safe City services are free for citizens; officials never request cash, bank account details, or personal information via SMS.
This clear stance aims to prevent financial fraud and ensure citizens do not fall victim to scammers.
How Fraudsters Exploit Fake E-Challan SMS
Modus Operandi of Cybercriminals
Fraudsters use fake e-challan messages to trick citizens into:
- Clicking on malicious links that appear legitimate.
- Entering sensitive banking details or transferring money.
- Downloading malware that can steal personal information.
These scams are designed to create fear and urgency, pressuring recipients into quick action. Experts advise: never click on suspicious links and verify every message with official channels before taking any action.
Common Signs of Fake E-Challan Messages
To protect yourself, watch out for:
- Messages from unknown numbers other than 8070.
- SMS that demand immediate payment without details.
- Poor grammar or generic warnings that lack official formatting.
- Links that redirect to unofficial payment portals.
Fake vs Real E-Challan SMS
| Feature | Real E-Challan (8070) | Fake E-Challan (Other Numbers) |
|---|---|---|
| Sender Number | 8070 | Any other number |
| Payment Request | Only via official PSCA portals | Requests money transfer directly |
| Violation Details | Includes time, place, and nature of violation | Often vague or missing |
| Personal Data | Never asks for bank details | Frequently requests bank or personal info |
| Official Support | Contact 15 or FIA Cyber Wing | No verifiable support |
Authenticity of E-Challan: How To Verify
A genuine e-challan SMS provides complete and accurate information about the traffic violation:
- Time of Violation: Exact date and hour of the incident.
- Place of Violation: The specific road or location.
- Violation Details: Type of traffic rule breached (e.g., speed limit, signal violation).
- Reference Number: Official challan number for online payment.
Any message lacking these details should be considered fraudulent and immediately reported.
How to Pay PSCA E-Challan Online Safely
Paying traffic fines online has never been easier. The PSCA provides official digital channels to pay real e-challans:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the PSCA official portal: https://www.psca.gop.pk/e-challan
- Enter your vehicle registration number as shown in the e-challan SMS.
- Verify the e-challan details – date, place, violation type, and challan number.
- Select your payment method (credit/debit card, mobile banking, or online banking).
- Complete the payment and save the receipt for future reference.
Important Instructions for Citizens
- Do not pay via suspicious SMS or unofficial links.
- All Safe City services are free, including reporting and verification.
- In case of doubtful messages, immediately call 15 or contact the FIA Cyber Wing.
- Educate family and friends about fake e-challan scams to prevent mass exploitation.
- Install antivirus software and enable spam filters on your mobile devices.
FAQs About Fake E-Challan SMS
1. How can I identify a real e-challan SMS in Punjab?
A genuine e-challan is always sent from 8070, includes violation time, location, and details, and never requests bank details or cash.
2. What should I do if I receive a suspicious e-challan SMS?
Immediately ignore the SMS, do not click on any links, and contact 15 or the FIA Cyber Wing.
3. Can I pay my traffic fine through mobile banking apps?
Yes, only through official PSCA online portals. Avoid paying through links in SMS or unverified sources.
4. Are all Safe City services free for citizens?
Yes, PSCA services, including e-challan verification, do not require payment for access or support.
5. What is the official channel to report fake e-challan SMS?
Report immediately via PSCA helpline 15 or FIA Cyber Wing Pakistan.
Conclusion
With the rise of fake e-challan SMS in Punjab, citizens must remain vigilant in 2025. Remember: real e-challan messages are sent only from 8070. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, sharing personal or banking information, and always verify messages through official PSCA channels or helplines. Staying informed and cautious ensures you protect your finances and personal data from fraudsters.
