The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has warned motorists and members of the public about fraudulent text messages claiming that recipients have been recorded for new road traffic offences.
The Corps said the messages, which are being circulated through mobile phones and social media platforms, direct recipients to a fake website designed to mimic the FRSC’s digital identity.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, said the website had no connection with the road safety agency.
“The Federal Road Safety Corps alerts the entire community of the public, particularly motorists, to a fraudulent scheme involving the circulation of unsolicited text messages purportedly issued by the Corps and notifying recipients of alleged ‘new road traffic offence records’ requiring immediate action,” the statement said.
According to the FRSC, the messages are crafted to create a sense of urgency, telling recipients that a traffic violation has been recorded against them and directing them to click on a link to view the alleged offence.
The Corps warned that the links could expose unsuspecting victims to attempts to obtain their personal or financial information.
Motorists were advised to verify any alleged traffic offence through the FRSC’s established official channels rather than using links contained in unsolicited messages.
The agency also urged members of the public not to click on suspicious links or provide sensitive information, including banking details, passwords, card information, driver’s licence details and vehicle registration records.
Those who receive the messages were advised to retain evidence of the communication, avoid further contact with the sender and report the suspected fraud through the appropriate channels.
The FRSC reminded motorists that its official communication channels include the national toll-free number 122 and its official website.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, directed that members of the public should be adequately informed about the scam and urged motorists to exercise caution when responding to online messages purportedly issued by the agency.
Mohammed urged Nigerians to adopt a “stop, verify, report” approach and confirm the authenticity of messages through the FRSC’s official website and established communication channels.
The Corps also warned individuals behind the scheme against using its name, insignia and digital platforms to defraud members of the public.
It said it would work with relevant law enforcement and cybersecurity agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for the fraudulent scheme.
