Punjab Safe Cities Authority Launches Anti-Fraud Initiative for E-Challan System
In a significant move to enhance public safety and combat digital fraud, the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has issued a crucial announcement aimed at protecting citizens from deceptive messages related to e-challan and online scams. According to official sources from Safe City, this initiative comes as part of ongoing efforts to secure digital communications and prevent financial exploitation.
Official E-Challan Messaging Number Updated to 9915
The authority has implemented a key change in its e-challan notification system. Previously, e-challan messages were dispatched from the official number 8070. However, in a bid to streamline operations and bolster security, the PSCA has now designated 9915 as the sole official number for sending e-challan messages. This update is effective immediately, and the authority has clarified that it will not use any other number for this purpose moving forward.
This strategic shift is designed to reduce confusion among the public and create a more reliable channel for official communications. By consolidating messaging to a single, verified number, the PSCA aims to minimize the risk of impersonation and fraudulent activities that have been on the rise in recent times.
Citizens Urged to Exercise Caution Against Payment Scams
In light of this change, the Safe City has issued a stern warning to all citizens. Authorities emphasize that individuals should not make any payments or share sensitive information in response to suspicious messages or websites. The PSCA has reiterated that it never requests payment, bank account details, or personal financial information through text messages.
To further safeguard against fraud, citizens are advised to:
- Verify the sender's number as 9915 before trusting any e-challan message.
- Avoid clicking on links or providing personal data in unsolicited communications.
- Report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities immediately.
This proactive measure underscores the PSCA's commitment to leveraging technology for public welfare while addressing the growing threats in the digital landscape. The authority continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to track and penalize those involved in such fraudulent schemes.
Related Government Update: Stamp Paper Fee Increase
In a separate but notable development, the Punjab government has announced an increase in stamp paper fees, set to take effect from January 2026. While this change is unrelated to the e-challan system, it highlights the broader context of governmental adjustments in administrative and financial regulations. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed about such updates to ensure compliance and avoid any unintended penalties.
Overall, the PSCA's announcement serves as a timely reminder for the public to remain vigilant in the face of evolving cyber threats, reinforcing the importance of official channels and cautious online behavior.
