The National Highways Authority of india (NHAI) and cybercrime authorities have issued warnings about a rising wave of online FASTag scams where fraudsters use fake websites, misleading links and fraudulent QR codes to steal money and personal information from motorists.

These scams are increasingly sophisticated and exploit people’s reliance on wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital FASTag services for tolls, annual passes, and recharges.

🚨 What the Scam Involves

🔹 Fake Websites Masquerading as Official Portals

Scammers create websites that look almost identical to the official NHAI FASTag portal, complete with official logos and design elements. They pay to appear at the top of search results so unsuspecting users click them, thinking they are genuine.

These sites often claim to offer services such as:

• “FASTag Annual Pass” purchases
• FASTag top‑ups and renewals
• Urgent KYC updates
  and ask users to enter personal information and make payments — but the money goes straight to fraudsters.

🔹 Fake QR Codes That Steal Money

Cybercriminals also distribute fake QR codes through SMS, WhatsApp, or even pasted near toll plazas. Users who scan them are redirected to fraudulent payment pages or asked to enter sensitive details like:

• FASTag ID
• Vehicle number
• One‑Time Password (OTP)
  These are used to drain bank or UPI wallets.

⚠️ Common Tactics Used by Scammers

Here are some ways these frauds are carried out:

📱 Misleading Messages

Scammers send SMS/WhatsApp alerts claiming:

• Your FASTag balance is low
• You must update KYC
• A toll pass offer expires soon
  These messages contain malicious links or QR codes that look real but are traps.

🌐 Sponsored Links & search Engine Exploits

By paying for “sponsored” search results or optimising fake site SEO, fraudsters ensure their links appear high when users search for FASTag services. Many users mistakenly trust these results.

🛡️ How to Identify and Avoid FASTag Scams

Here’s how to stay safe:

✔ Use Only Official Platforms

• The only official places to manage FASTag services are:
  • The Rajmarg yatra app
  • Your bank’s authorised FASTag portal
  • Official NHAI websites (e.g., nhai.gov.in)
    Avoid unfamiliar sites even if they look real.

✔ Check the Website URL Carefully

Fake sites often have unusual domain names like:

• nhai‑online.in
• nhaitollpass.com
  These are not affiliated with NHAI and should not be trusted.

✔ Don’t Scan Unknown QR Codes

Never scan:

• QR codes sent by unknown numbers
• Codes pasted randomly in public places
• Links in unsolicited messages
  These often lead to phishing sites.

✔ Never Share OTPs or banking Details

Banks and official FASTag services will never ask you for OTPs, UPI PINs, or full banking details through messages or calls — especially not for verification.

📣 What to Do If You’re Targeted or Scammed

If you suspect fraud:

Stop transactions immediately (cancel payment, block UPI/bank cards).

Report to cybercrime authorities via the government of India’s portal: cybercrime.gov.in.

Contact your bank or FASTag provider to secure your account.

File a police complaint with local cybercrime units.

Avoid responding to follow‑up calls from unknown numbers.

📌 Final Takeaway

The surge in FASTag‑related scams in 2026 shows how fraudsters are exploiting wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital systems and motorists’ trust in online services. The key to staying safe is vigilance — always use official apps and verified domains, scrutinise URLs, and be cautious with unsolicited QR codes or links.

Staying informed and alert can help you avoid losing money and protect your personal information from cyber criminals.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.