Motorists warned about fake AARTO R250 discount scam
The Road Traffic Infringement Authority says scammers are using fake AARTO websites, SMSes, WhatsApp messages and emails to demand R250 payments and steal personal information.
South African motorists are being warned about a new scam targeting AARTO fines, with fraudsters using fraudulent websites, text messages, WhatsApp messages and emails to steal money and personal data. President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act in 62 municipalities, expanding to 151 more later this year. The Act will introduce a demerit point system in 2027.
The Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA) reported a surge in sophisticated scams involving imitation websites posing as the official AARTO platform. The latest scam entices motorists to pay R250 on the same day, promising a discount. To make payments, motorists must refer to the 16-digit Infringement Notice number, which does not require an RTIA bank account.
The RTIA warns about fake discounts, offering a 50% discount or penalty fee waiver if motorists pay within 24 hours. Messages are sent after working hours and on weekends to instill panic. Road users are advised not to click any links and to delete the email immediately. Instead, contact the RTIA promptly if uncertain. Ignore messages with phrases like "Final Notice," "Final Demand," or claims that your driving licence card or vehicle licence disc will be blocked.
Be wary of fraudulent websites resembling the official AARTO site, which may steal personal or payment information. Watch out for typos and incorrect names, such as "NATS Online | Vehicle License Disc Renewal."
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
