Article re-cap
- The City of Cape Town does not send emails, WhatsApp messages, or SMS messages to request payment for parking fees.
- Parking fees in Cape Town must always be paid upfront directly to an official parking marshal at the time of parking.
- Fraudsters are using phishing scams via WhatsApp, SMS, and email to trick motorists into believing they have unpaid parking balances.
- Legitimate notifications for outstanding traffic fines in Cape Town include a link to the authentic portal at www.cityofcapetownfines.co.za.
The City of Cape Town urban mobility directorate has issued a warning to residents and visitors regarding a rise in phishing scams targeting road users.
Fraudsters are using WhatsApp, SMS, and email notifications to trick people into believing they have unpaid parking fees. These messages urge recipients to click on links to settle balances immediately, according to the City.
Mayoral committee member for urban mobility Rob Quintas said the City does not send emails, WhatsApp messages, or SMS messages requesting payment for parking fees. He stated that parking fees in Cape Town must always be paid upfront directly to an official parking marshal at the time of parking.
The City clarified that these messages are part of a phishing scam and advised motorists not to click on any links provided. Residents should not confuse these scams with legitimate notifications for outstanding traffic fines, which include a link to the authentic portal at www.cityofctviewfines.co.za.
Motorists who receive suspicious notifications are advised not to engage with the sender. To verify a payment or address concerns regarding parking fees, individuals can contact the City's Transport Information Centre by calling 080 065 6463 or emailing [email protected].
Frequently asked questions
How does the City of Cape Town actually send parking fee notifications?
The City does not send emails, WhatsApp messages, or SMS messages requesting payment for parking fees. Parking fees in Cape Town must always be paid upfront directly to an official parking marshal at the time of parking.
How can I tell if a parking payment message is a scam?
Any message via WhatsApp, SMS, or email asking you to pay parking fees is a phishing scam. Do not click on links in these messages. Legitimate traffic fine notifications include a link to www.cityofctviewfines.co.za.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious parking payment notification?
Do not engage with the sender or click any links. To verify a payment or address concerns regarding parking fees, contact the City's Transport Information Centre at 080 065 6463 or email [email protected].
What is the difference between parking fee scams and legitimate traffic fine notifications?
Parking fee payment requests via email, WhatsApp, or SMS are always scams. Legitimate notifications for outstanding traffic fines include a link to the authentic portal at www.cityofctviewfines.co.za, which is the only official source.
Source: atlanticsun.co.za
