The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has warned motorists against fraudulent text messages claiming they have new “road traffic offence records” and directing them to a fake website.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, the FRSC said the messages were being circulated through mobile devices and social media platforms.
The messages create a sense of urgency by informing recipients that a traffic offence has been recorded against them and asking them to click a link to view the details, the Corps said.
It identified one of the fraudulent links as “frscgov.top/ng” and stressed that the website has no affiliation with the FRSC.
The Corps said its official website is frsc.gov.ng and advised motorists to verify alleged traffic offences through authorised FRSC channels rather than links contained in unsolicited messages.
It warned that the fake links could be designed to harvest personal and financial information from unsuspecting motorists.
The FRSC advised members of the public not to click on suspicious links or disclose banking information, passwords, card details, driver’s licence information, vehicle registration details or other personal data in response to unsolicited messages.
Motorists who receive such messages were advised to preserve the evidence, avoid further engagement with the sender and report the matter through appropriate channels.
The Corps said members of the public could also use its national toll-free line, 122, or its official website to verify information.
It warned those behind the scheme against using its name, insignia, identity and digital platforms for criminal activities, and said it would work with relevant law enforcement and cybersecurity authorities to pursue action against those responsible.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, directed that the public be sensitised on the scam and urged motorists to exercise caution in their online engagements.
He urged Nigerians to verify any message claiming to originate from the FRSC.