The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a critical public warning about a sharp increase in fraudulent activities targeting vehicle owners seeking the annual pass for the FASTag system. Scammers are creating deceptive websites, social media links, and unofficial platforms to sell counterfeit passes, putting users at risk of significant financial loss and data theft.
How the FASTag Annual Pass Scam Operates
Fraudsters are setting up sophisticated fake online portals that closely mimic legitimate platforms. These sites lure customers by claiming to sell or renew the one-year FASTag annual pass. Unsuspecting vehicle owners who enter their details on these platforms risk losing up to Rs. 3,000 and, more alarmingly, having their sensitive personal and financial information stolen. This data can include vehicle registration numbers, FASTag IDs, and payment details.
The NHAI has clarified that the FASTag Annual Pass can only be purchased through the official Rajmargyatra mobile application. No other website, social media advertisement, WhatsApp message, or third-party seller is authorized to generate or sell this pass. The authority has observed a concerning rise in complaints related to these fake passes, prompting the urgent advisory shared widely on social media platform X.
Official Channels and Safety Measures from NHAI
To combat these scams, NHAI has outlined clear safety protocols for all vehicle users. Adherence to these guidelines is essential for secure digital toll transactions.
Authorized Purchase Points:
- The Rajmargyatra mobile app (the only official source for the annual pass).
- Banking apps of authorized partner banks.
- The official NPCI – My FASTag website.
Critical Precautions:
- Ignore unsolicited calls, SMS, or WhatsApp messages containing links or QR codes to "update" or "renew" your FASTag.
- Never share your OTP, vehicle registration number, or FASTag number with anyone offering unsolicited help.
- Regularly monitor your FASTag transactions and balance via the official app and enable SMS alerts.
- Immediately report any unauthorized transaction to your bank and the NHAI toll-free helpline at 1033.
What to Do If You Suspect Fraud
If you believe you have fallen victim to a FASTag scam, NHAI recommends taking immediate action to minimize damage. First, file a formal complaint with the Cyber Crime Cell at cybercrime.gov.in, providing all relevant details of the incident. Simultaneously, contact your bank to report the suspected fraud and request a block on your FASTag account to prevent further losses. Quick reporting is crucial to safeguarding your finances and personal data.
The FASTag annual pass, designed for private cars, jeeps, and vans, offers cashless toll payments and is valid for one year or 200 trips, whichever comes first. It is a key component of India's digital highway infrastructure, aimed at reducing wait times and promoting convenience. However, this convenience must be paired with vigilance. The NHAI's final advisory remains unequivocal: for your security, transact only through the Rajmargyatra app and avoid all unverified links and sellers.
