Cape Town motorists have been urged to double-check the fine details on their City traffic infringements amid a rise in scam emails demanding payment for fake fines.
The City’s Traffic Services says it has received numerous enquiries from residents who have received suspicious payment requests via email.
City Traffic Services spokesperson Kevin Jacobs says the emails, which falsely claim to be from the National Administration Traffic Information System (NaTIS), demand immediate payment for alleged outstanding fines and threaten that the amounts will increase if payment is not made.
Jacobs says the City has confirmed with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) that these messages are part of an ongoing scam.
“Motorists are being warned not to click on any links or make payments before verifying the legitimacy of an infringement notice.”
Jacobs added that residents who believe they have fallen victim to the scam are encouraged to open a case of fraud with the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The City’s Traffic Services has also reminded the public that there are only two legitimate online platforms for viewing and paying traffic fines:
- Traffic fine viewing page
- Payment portal
Official infringement notices are always sent via post or MMS, followed by SMS reminders. These notices include a picture of the fine and direct links to the City’s verified online platforms.
Motorists are encouraged to cross-check all fine details, including the location, date, and time of the alleged offence, to ensure they were in fact driving in the area at that time.
“Anyone uncertain about the legitimacy of a fine can visit their nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre or one of the City’s fine payment offices for assistance.”
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