FRSC warns motorists against fake SMS, website over alleged traffic offences

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued an alert to motorists and the public regarding fraudulent text messages and a fake website purportedly linked to the organization. According to a statement from the Corps' Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, the scam involves unsolicited SMS messages allegedly sent by FRSC, informing recipients of new "road traffic offence records" against them.

The messages direct recipients to a deceptive website designed to mimic the Corps' digital identity. FRSC asserts that it has no affiliation with the fraudulent messages and the website, frscgov.top/ng, which is explicitly disavowed by the agency.

The fraudulent communications are intended to instill a sense of urgency, instructing recipients to click on links to "review the relevant details." Such links may be aimed at extracting personal information, financial details, and other sensitive data from unsuspecting individuals. FRSC strongly advises Nigerians not to click on suspicious links or make any payments in response to these messages.

The agency urges individuals to preserve evidence, refrain from further communication with the sender, and report the matter through appropriate channels. Motorists are also advised to verify any alleged traffic offence directly through official FRSC channels rather than through links contained in unsolicited messages.

FRSC emphasizes that its official digital platforms and services are hosted through authorized digital channels, with the official website being frsc.gov.ng. The agency warns against the deliberate impersonation of FRSC personnel and the use of counterfeit digital platforms to deceive motorists, stating that such actions are matters of serious concern.

The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, has tasked members of the public with adequate sensitization about the fraudulent scheme and urged motorists to remain vigilant in their online activities. FRSC advocates for the STOP. VERIFY. REPORT. approach, urging Nigerians to verify any message claiming to be from FRSC via official channels before taking any action.

The Corps Marshal's appeal is to prevent losses arising from engagement with unauthorised websites, links, or individuals falsely representing themselves as representatives of the Corps.