Fraudsters impersonate TraffiTech-GH to steal motorists’ banking details

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has warned the public against fraudulent text messages impersonating TraffiTech-GH, the Ghana Police Service’s automated traffic offence enforcement system, in an attempt to steal motorists’ banking and payment details.

The scammers reportedly send messages accusing recipients of traffic violations, particularly speeding, and direct them to fake websites to view the alleged offences and pay fines.

The caution comes just over a week after the traffic enforcement system was rolled out on November 1.

The CSA says the fraudulent messages use official-sounding language and specific ticket and vehicle details to make them appear genuine.

In a public alert issued on Monday, November 9, the Authority said the fake portals request sensitive debit and credit card information, including card numbers, expiry dates and Card Verification Values (CVVs).

The messages also provide alternative payment options, including online links and USSD codes, to make the fraudulent transactions appear legitimate.

The CSA has therefore urged motorists not to click on links contained in unsolicited messages alleging traffic offences or outstanding fines.

“Do not enter card, banking, or Mobile Money details, including PINs and One-Time Passwords (OTPs), in response to unsolicited messages,” the Authority cautioned.

It advised recipients to verify the authenticity of traffic violation notifications by checking whether they were sent from the official sender ID, GPS-MTTD.

The Authority also urged motorists to open their Electronic Notice of Violation (ENV) or ticket to confirm the vehicle photograph and registration number, as well as the location, date and time of the alleged offence.

According to the CSA, genuine traffic fines should be paid only through the National Investment Bank (NIB) payment portal at https://traffitech-ghpay.nib.com.gh or by dialling 7100# and following the prompts using the ticket number.

“Never pay a traffic fine into a personal mobile money number or through any unofficial account,” it cautioned.