Cape Town motorists warned against scam traffic emails
More scammers are using traffic fines to target motorists.
From fake AI videos to old-school phishing scams, criminals try to swindle victims in many ways.
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In 2025 alone, there have been warnings about a WhatsApp scam using deepfake technology, and the City of Tshwane had to release a statement concerning a fake job advertisement circulating online.
As recently as October, traffic fine platform, Fines SA, had to issue a warning to SA motorists, saying they must be vigilant as a wave of traffic fine scams was exploiting the confusion surrounding the new AARTO demerit system that will be rolling out.
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The City of Cape Town’s Traffic Services have also announced that they are seeing a rise in scam emails demanding payment for fake fines.
The Traffic Services reported that it has received numerous enquiries from residents who have been sent suspicious payment requests via email.
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According to News24, City Traffic Services spokesperson Kevin Jacobs states that these emails falsely claim to be from the National Administration Traffic Information System (NaTIS) and demand immediate payment for alleged outstanding fines.
The scammers are also threatening motorists, claiming the amount will increase if payment is not made.
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Jacobs has confirmed that the City has worked with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to establish these messages as false and part of an ongoing scam.
Capetonian motorists have been warned not to click any links or make payments before verifying the legitimacy of the infringement notice.
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They are also being urged to double-check the fine details on the traffic infringements they receive.
Jacobs also encourages residents who believe they have fallen victim to the scam to open a case of fraud with the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The City’s Traffic Services are reminding the public that there are only two legitimate online platforms for viewing and paying traffic fines:
- Traffic fine viewing page
- Payment portal
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How to spot the difference and stay safe:
- Note that official infringement notices are always sent via MMS or post. These are followed by SMS reminders.
- Notices will include a picture of the fine and direct links to the verified online platforms.
- Cross-check all fine details, such as the location, date, and time of the alleged offence, to ensure you were, in fact, driving in the area at that time.
- If you are uncertain about the legitimacy of a fine, visit your nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre or one of the City’s fine payment offices for assistance.
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