The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a fraud alert warning motorists and members of the public about fraudulent SMS messages demanding payment for cited traffic violation fines.

The authority says the scam is designed to deceive unsuspecting road users into making payments through an unauthorised online platform.

In a statement shared on its official X account on December 18, 2025, NTSA said it had received multiple reports of fraudsters sending SMS messages urging recipients to pay supposed traffic fines through a specified link within a given deadline. The messages often create a sense of urgency by warning of further penalties if payment is not made promptly.

“We have received reports of fraudsters sending SMS messages to members of the public, urging them to pay alleged traffic violation fines through a specified link by a deadline,” part of the NTSA statement reads.

Fake website and rising risks

NTSA clarified that the website cited in the messages, https://ntsca.cc, is not affiliated with or operated by the authority. According to NTSA, the fraudulent messages are crafted to closely resemble official notifications, making them difficult to distinguish from genuine alerts.

The scam involves directing recipients to the fake website, which is designed to mimic the official NTSA portal. Once on the site, users are prompted to enter vehicle registration details and payment information. NTSA warned that this exposes victims to the risk of financial loss and data theft.

The authority noted that the fraudsters exploit heightened awareness of instant traffic fines and enforcement measures, particularly during periods of increased police activity.

How motorists can protect themselves

NTSA advised the public to take specific steps to protect themselves and others from falling victim to the scam. These include avoiding clicking on any links included in suspicious SMS messages, refraining from responding to such messages, and never making payments through the provided platforms.

For individuals who may have already made payments, NTSA urged them to contact their bank immediately to block or reverse the transaction where possible. The authority also advised deleting the fraudulent SMS from devices to prevent accidental engagement later.

To help distinguish genuine communications from fake ones, NTSA said official SMS notifications are sent using the short names NTSA or 22847_NTSA. “The authority’s official website remains http://ntsa.go.ke, and legitimate traffic fines can only be verified and paid through authorised platforms such as the NTSA portal on eCitizen.”

Ongoing investigations and public vigilance

NTSA said it is actively collaborating with relevant investigative agencies to track down and stop the individuals behind the fraudulent scheme. The authority emphasised that public vigilance is critical in disrupting such scams.

Motorists are encouraged to verify any traffic-related notifications strictly through official NTSA channels and to report suspicious messages.

The alert comes amid heightened road safety campaigns during the festive season, when traffic volumes are higher and enforcement is more visible. NTSA urged the public to share the warning widely to help protect more people from falling victim to the scam.