The City of Cape Town’s traffic services have warned people not to fall for a scam in which motorists are instructed to pay a fine within 24 hours or face legal action.

In a statement issued on Wednesday (5 August), the City’s Traffic Services spokesperson, Kevin Jacobs said it was aware of the resurgence of the scam, which involves emails or text messages being sent to motorists demanding they pay the fine.

“We want to remind the public to please to be careful and verify notices received before making payment or sharing their details. In Cape Town, infringement notices are sent via post and MMS, with follow-up SMS reminders. They will include a picture of the fine notice and links to two online platforms.”

Make sure

Jacobs said if motorists do receive a fine they should check the details closely, including whether they were in fact in the area mentioned, or appear in the photograph on the day on which the infringement occurred. Motorists can also visit their nearest driving-licence testing centre or one of the City’s fine payment points to check the validity of the fine, he said.

Jacobs said people who suspect they have been scammed should lay charges of fraud with the police.

To view a traffic fine visit http://www.cityofctviewfines.co.za or www.paythat.co.za, a portal for viewing fine details and making payments.

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