Surge in fake traffic fines leaves South African motorists out of pocket
Scammers are reportedly cashing in on confusion around the new AARTO law, tricking South Africans into paying fake traffic fines. Here's everything we know about this scam.
Many South African motorists have recently received alarming messages claiming they owe outstanding traffic fines. These so-called ‘ghost fines’ are part of an increasing number of scams targeting the public. Fraudsters are capitalising on confusion surrounding the upcoming implementation of the Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO), which is set to come into effect on 1 December.
Why are scammers targeting motorists now?
With AARTO expected to introduce a new demerit system, uncertainty about how the law will impact drivers has created an opportunity for criminals. Reports show that many drivers are anxious about penalties linked to their driving records, leading them to react quickly to messages claiming they need to pay immediately to avoid further fines.
How are these scams operating?
According to IOL, motorists have reported receiving messages via WhatsApp, SMS or email that appear to be from legitimate authorities. The messages urge immediate payment of a supposed fine and contain a link that directs victims to a cloned website resembling an official municipal or fines aggregator portal.
Once the victim completes the payment, the money disappears and there is no record of the transaction or fine settlement. The websites often mirror legitimate designs, using real logos and official-looking wording to deceive users.
How does AARTO fit into this?
The new AARTO system will connect traffic fines directly to a points-based demerit structure. This means drivers who repeatedly break the law could face suspension or even cancellation of their driving licences. With such serious consequences, many motorists are eager to stay compliant, but that eagerness is being manipulated by scammers posing as official authorities.
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How widespread is digital fraud in South Africa?
The rise in ghost fines coincides with a broader surge in online fraud across South Africa. The South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC) revealed that digital banking fraud now accounts for over 65% of reported financial crimes. Reported incidents have more than doubled, increasing from 31,612 cases in 2023 to 64,000 in 2024, with annual losses exceeding R1.4 billion.
SABRIC noted that these crimes are largely driven by social engineering, a tactic where criminals manipulate victims into sharing information or making payments, rather than hacking systems directly. This trend mirrors the methods seen in the ghost fine scams, where human trust and urgency are exploited.
What should motorists do if they receive a fake fine?
Authorities and experts urge motorists to remain cautious when receiving traffic-related notifications. Any message demanding immediate payment should be treated with suspicion, particularly if it arrives via SMS or WhatsApp with a link to an unfamiliar website.
Drivers are encouraged to verify all fines using legitimate, verified traffic fine platforms or by contacting municipal offices directly. Fines SA also recommends deleting any suspicious messages and avoiding clicking on unverified links.
As South Africa prepares for AARTO’s rollout, awareness and caution remain the best defences against ghost fine scams. The more motorists stay informed, the fewer opportunities scammers will have to profit from confusion and fear.
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