Top 5 E-Challan Scams to Watch Out For in Pakistan (2025) and How to Avoid Them

As Pakistan continues its shift toward digital governance, online services such as E-Challan verification and payment have made traffic fine management faster and more convenient. However, the rise of digital systems has also attracted cybercriminals who exploit public trust through fake messages, cloned websites, fraudulent apps, and phishing attempts.

These scams aim to steal money, personal data, or banking credentials by pretending to represent legitimate government authorities such as the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) or City Traffic Police Lahore (CTPL).

This guide explains the five most common E-Challan scams operating in Pakistan, how they work, and — most importantly — how you can stay safe in 2025.

Top 5 E-Challan Scams in Pakistan and Protection Tips

1. Fake E-Challan SMS Scam

What It Is

The most widespread scam involves fake text messages claiming your vehicle committed a traffic violation and requires immediate payment.

Example message:
“Your vehicle has been fined Rs. 500 for a signal violation. Pay now or your registration will be blocked: echallan-pay-online.com”

How It Works

• Messages are sent from random or private mobile numbers.
• Victims are asked to click links leading to fake websites that look like PSCA or traffic police portals.
• Users are tricked into entering CNIC numbers, vehicle details, or payment card information.
• Data is captured or money is stolen instantly.

How to Avoid It

• Never click links received via random SMS messages.
• Verify challans only on official portals:
  • echallan.psca.gop.pk
  • e-challan.pk
• Only trust sites ending in “.gop.pk” or recognized official “.com.pk” domains.
• Use verified government mobile apps where available.

2. Fake E-Challan Websites and Mobile Apps

What It Is

Scammers create fake websites or Android apps imitating official government platforms. These clones copy logos, layouts, and wording to appear legitimate.

How It Works

• Fraudulent pages appear in search results or promoted advertisements.
• Victims key in registration numbers, CNIC, card details, or PSIDs.
• Information is saved for identity theft or financial fraud.

How to Avoid It

• Verify domain names carefully — legitimate sites always use:
  • “.gop.pk” extensions
  • Or trusted portals such as e-challan.pk
• Never install “E-Challan” apps not officially published by PSCA or provincial authorities.
• Always use official banking apps or wallet apps (JazzCash, Easypaisa) to make payments — never unfamiliar platforms.

3. Phishing Emails Posing as Traffic Authorities

What It Is

Some victims receive emails pretending to be sent by traffic departments. Subject lines typically read:

“Pending E-Challan Notice — Immediate Payment Required”

These emails often include attachments named “ChallanReceipt.pdf” or links to “confirm payment.”

How It Works

• Clicking the link leads to a fake portal designed to harvest sensitive data.
• Downloading attachments installs malware capable of stealing banking credentials or device access.

How to Avoid It

• Check sender addresses carefully — valid government emails end with:
  • @psca.gop.pk
  • @punjabpolice.gov.pk
• Never download attachments from suspicious emails.
• Do not click payment links in emails.
• Report phishing emails to FIA Cyber Crime Wing at nr3c.gov.pk.

4. WhatsApp & Social Media “E-Challan Discount” Scams

What It Is

Scammers circulate fake offers via WhatsApp, Facebook, or Instagram advertising:

• “50% discount on E-Challan today only!”
• “Check your traffic fine instantly using this link!”

How It Works

• Fake links circulate through social groups and paid advertisements.
• Victims input CNIC details or OTP codes on fake portals.
• Data is misused or accounts are compromised.

How to Avoid It

• Never open or share challan-related links from WhatsApp or social media.
• Avoid any post offering fake “discounts” on legal fines.
• Verify only through official websites.
• Follow verified police department pages for announcements — not unverified accounts.
• Report suspicious content to PTA or FIA Cyber Crime Wing.

5. Fake JazzCash & Easypaisa Payment Requests

What It Is

Some scammers call victims directly posing as traffic officers and pressure them to urgently pay a challan by transferring money to a personal JazzCash or Easypaisa number.

How It Works

• The fraudster provides a personal wallet number for “immediate settlement.”
• Once payment is made, the scammer disappears.
• Victims later learn no challan ever existed.

How to Avoid It

• Government departments never use personal accounts for payments.
• Payments are made only via:
  • Official government portals
  • Banking apps (HBL, Meezan, MCB, UBL, BOP, NBP)
  • Authorized wallet menus inside JazzCash or Easypaisa apps labeled “Traffic Challan Payment”

How to Verify an E-Challan Safely

1. Visit:
   • echallan.psca.gop.pk
   • e-challan.pk
2. Enter:
   • Vehicle Registration Number, or
   • CNIC
3. Verify:
   • Challan number
   • Violation date & location
   • Photo evidence
   • Payment amount
4. Use only official payment channels for settlement.

What to Do If You Become a Victim

If you believe you have fallen victim to an E-Challan scam:

Immediately take these steps:

1. Report to FIA Cyber Crime Wing:
   • Website: nr3c.gov.pk
   • Helpline: 1991 or 051-9106384
2. Submit a complaint with PTA:
   • complaint.pta.gov.pk
3. Contact your bank or mobile wallet provider to freeze or block accounts.
4. Save:
   • SMS messages
   • Website screenshots
   • Payment receipts

These documents help investigators trace fraudulent activity.

Cyber Safety Tips for Vehicle Owners

• Always verify website URLs before entering any information.
• Keep banking and wallet apps updated.
• Avoid payments on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever available.
• Never share CNIC, OTPs, or card details with unknown callers.
• Stay updated through official PSCA and police channels only.

Verified Government Sources

Final Words

The E-Challan system has brought major improvements to traffic governance, transparency, and convenience — but scammers constantly attempt to exploit digital trust.

Understanding common fraud techniques keeps you protected. Always verify through official channels, avoid suspicious links, and never make payments using personal accounts.

Cyber awareness is your strongest defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I verify my E-Challan safely?

Use echallan.psca.gop.pk or e-challan.pk and search with CNIC or vehicle number.

Can I recover money sent to scammers?

Unfortunately, recovery is rare. Immediately report to FIA and your bank or wallet provider to block further damage.

Are SMS messages from private numbers authentic?

No. Official notifications only arrive from verified government sender IDs such as 8070 or 8815.

Which app should I use to check challans?

Only use official PSCA or police department apps or government portals. Avoid third-party apps.

Is paying through JazzCash or Easypaisa safe?

Yes — but only through official in-app government payment menus, never via personal numbers or external links.

Stay alert. Verify intelligently. Share awareness — and help protect Pakistan’s digital community from cyber fraud.