Fake AI Traffic Fine SMS Scam Targets Vehicle Owners in Dhaka
A cyber fraud ring has become active in Bangladesh by exploiting the introduction of the AI-based automated traffic enforcement system launched by Dhaka Metropolitan Police. Fraudsters are reportedly sending fake traffic violation SMS messages to vehicle owners in an attempt to steal banking and credit card information through phishing links.
On Sunday, numerous victims shared screenshots of the fraudulent messages on social media traffic alert groups and personal timelines. Due to limited public awareness regarding the new automated traffic system, many users are reportedly becoming confused and vulnerable to the scam.
Fake BRTA Messages and Phishing Links
According to victims, scammers are using the logo of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority and sending fake notices claiming that AI-powered traffic cameras detected speed limit violations. The messages include fabricated case numbers and warn recipients of penalties if fines are not paid within a specified timeframe.
The SMS messages also threaten that the alleged offense will be added to a national database. Victims are then directed to fake websites designed to resemble official government portals, where entering payment information exposes users to theft of banking credentials, credit card details, and OTP verification codes.
Technology professional Abdur Rahman said he received an AI traffic case notice despite not even riding a motorcycle. He also received an SMS offering a 50 percent discount on the fine if paid quickly. After investigating, he confirmed it was a phishing attempt.
Foreign Numbers and Suspicious Domains
Cybersecurity experts said many of the fake messages are being sent from foreign phone numbers, particularly those using the Philippines country code (+63). One reported number used in the scam was +63 948 331 8282.
Experts also warned users to carefully verify website domains. Official Bangladeshi government websites typically use the “.gov.bd” domain. Fraudulent websites may contain “govbd” in the address but end with suspicious extensions such as “.online,” “.icu,” or similar non-government domains.
According to specialists, imposing urgent 24-hour payment deadlines is a common psychological tactic used in cyber fraud operations to pressure victims into acting without verification.
BRTA and DMP Issue Official Clarifications
Both the Road Transport and Bridges Ministry and BRTA clarified that BRTA does not issue AI-generated traffic cases or collect such fines through SMS links. Authorities confirmed that any request for money using BRTA’s name in this manner is fraudulent.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police also stated that citizens are not currently receiving AI traffic case notifications through ordinary SMS messages. At present, official digital traffic case documents are being sent physically to vehicle owners’ registered addresses by post.
DMP further stated that, under the Road Transport Act 2018, any legitimate traffic case notification must include a signed letter from the responsible traffic or technical unit officer. In special circumstances, traffic-related SMS messages may only originate from the official numbers 01320-042207 and 01320-042227.
Authorities emphasized that the traffic division never asks citizens for banking PINs, passwords, or OTP codes. Valid online payments for traffic fines can only be made through authorized banking channels including Upay and United Commercial Bank systems.
Citizens have been advised not to click suspicious links or share financial information online without verification. For verified traffic-related information, DMP requested the public to contact Delta-3, the official numbers 01320-042207 and 01320-042227, or the national emergency hotline 999.
DBTech/SI/EK/OR
