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By Ariz Riaz :
A fraudulent website operating under the name “Punjab E-Challan” has reportedly surfaced online, raising concerns over a new wave of digital scams targeting motorists through fake traffic fine notifications and payment requests.
The website is accused of imitating the official e-challan system used in Punjab and allegedly tricks users into believing they have pending traffic violations requiring immediate payment.
According to Ahmed Waraich, the suspected scam portal generated a traffic challan even after false vehicle and identity information was entered into the system, suggesting that the platform may be designed solely to collect online payments and sensitive user data.
The journalist claimed he tested the website using a fake vehicle registration number and a fake CNIC number. Despite the incorrect details, the platform reportedly issued a challan of Rs500 and immediately prompted payment through a bank card.
The incident has sparked concerns over the growing misuse of government branding and public service systems by cybercriminals attempting to deceive internet users.
Cybersecurity experts warn that such phishing platforms are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often copying the appearance of legitimate government portals in order to gain public trust.
Officials and digital security specialists say users should carefully verify website addresses before entering personal or banking information, particularly when dealing with online payment systems linked to government services.
The case has also renewed concerns about cyber fraud in Pakistan, where fake websites, phishing links and scam text messages have become increasingly common in recent years.
Punjab Safe Cities Authority has previously warned citizens about fake e-challan notifications circulating through text messages sent from unofficial mobile numbers.
According to the authority, scammers have been distributing fraudulent SMS alerts containing links designed to steal banking information and illegally obtain money from unsuspecting users.
Officials clarified that genuine e-challan notifications are only issued through the official PSCA number 9915, urging citizens to ignore messages sent from any other number.
The latest incident has prompted calls for action from Pakistan’s cybercrime authorities.
Ahmed Waraich urged the Federal Investigation Agency and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency to investigate the operators behind the alleged scam website and take immediate legal action.
Experts say online scams often rely on urgency and fear to pressure victims into making quick payments without verifying authenticity.
They advise users to access government services only through verified official portals and avoid opening suspicious links shared through SMS messages, social media or unofficial websites.
The incident comes amid broader concerns about cybersecurity and online fraud in Pakistan, as authorities continue warning about increasing digital threats targeting citizens, businesses and government institutions alike.
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