The National Safety and Transport Authority (NTSA) has issued a formal fraud alert to motorists and the public at large regarding frausters who have been sending SMS messages claiming that a traffic violation fine must be paid through a link by a looming deadline. The messages urge immediate action and often use urgent language designed to prompt quick, careless clicks.
“We have received reports of fraudsters sending SMS messages to members of the public, urging them to pay alleged traffic violation fines through a specified link by a deadline. Please be informed that the website mentioned in these messages (https://ntsca.cc) is not affiliated with or operated by NTSA. We are actively collaborating with relevant investigative agencies to address this issue.” read part of the statement issued by NTSA.
Several motorists have reported receiving text messages with some even paying the alleged fines. One such message directs users to a website https://ntsca.cc urging payment before a stated deadline. While these messages may seem official, NTSA has confirmed that this website is not affiliated with them and has launched investigations in collaboration with relevant agencies.
Below are screenshots of some of the fraudulent messages sent to members of the public as posted by X users @N1Eric and @rayayim
The Authority has further revealed that besides https://ntsca.cc the the following two sites; balifm.com/ke and jezbo.com/ke are also commonly appearing on the fraudulent messages being sent to members of the public.
Upon clicking, the sites are smilar interms of the interface pointing to the possibility that they are operated by the same person or same group of persons. They bear the official NTSA logo in an effort to imitate the official site.
This comes barely a week after the Authority issued a similar urgent alert against a ‘fake’ vehicle search website which closely mimicks the official NTSA platform presenting itself as a quick and convenient alternative for vehicle searches. The site had reportedly been used to con members of the public seeking motor vehicle copy of records and ownership verification services.
NTSA’s Caution to Kenyans
The Authority has stated how the fraud works and cautioned members of the public not to fall into the trap. It stated that the fraudsters send you a message stating that you’ve violated traffic rules and are required to pay a fine immediately via a link. These messages includes a fabricated violation reference number, an urgency to act before a deadline, a payment link to a suspicious website and threats of enforcement action if you do not pay. The aim is to trick you into entering your payment information or personal details, which can then be used to steal your money or identity
NTSA has advised Kenyans who receive such texts not to click on the links included in the suspicious texts and refrain from replying to the said messages. Further, the Authority has advised members of the public to delete the said messages from their devices. This however seems odd as the Authority should have created a way of the recepients reporting the numbers sending the texts to it for further action including probable prosecution.
“1. For notifications, our official SMS short names are NTSA and 22847_NTSA 2. Our official website is http://ntsa.go.ke For assistance or inquiries, please contact NTSA through info@ntsa.go.ke.” read the last part of the statement.
Space Ya Magari continues to urge Kenyans to exercise caution not to fall prey to the predatory messages. We urge Kenyans to only use the official NTSA channels as outlined in the statement and whenever in doubt, contact the Authority on its official numbers; 0709 932 000 or visit any their Headquaters at 316 Upper Hill Chambers, 2nd Ngong Avenue, Upper Hill, Nairobi. Alternatively, you can visit any of their County offices or service desks at all Huduma Centres.
Young Lawyer with a passion for vehicles.
Upcoming Motor Journalist.
L'écriture est ma passion.
Nissan Patrol Y 62 is the goal.
www.karimi.co.ke
karimi@spaceyamagari.com
