The General Directorate of Traffic has warned on its profile on the social network X (formerly Twitter) about a cyber scam that sends users a false fine by SMS. This is a recurring fraud attempt, the objective of which is to steal the victim’s personal information and banking details.
In this regard, the agency dependent on the Ministry of the Interior reminds that “the DGT only notifies fines by postal mail or by the Road Electronic Address.” Given the proliferation of attempts to scam drivers, it is advisable to sharpen your senses and know for sure how to differentiate a real fine from a fake one, how to check if we have a fine and how to pay it safely.
As highlighted by the DGT, official fines are always sent to the driver through certified postal mail, or through the Road Electronic Address. You can also check if you have pending fines in the miDGT mobile application. So, if you receive a supposed fine by email, SMS or even messaging applications like WhatsApp, you will know that it is a scam attempt.
Another criterion that you can look at, which is very reliable when identifying fraud on the Internet, is the grammatical and spelling correctness of the communication. When the message has errors, typos or spelling mistakes, be suspicious.
If you receive this type of message and you are not sure if it is a real fine or not, under no circumstances should you respond or access the attached link, as it could direct you to a fraudulent website or install a virus on your device. Instead, you should check official channels to find out whether or not you have an outstanding fine to pay.
You can check if you have a traffic ticket on your mobile phone quickly and easily by downloading the miDGT application. Once installed, you must identify yourself using the Cl@ve Pin, permanent password or electronic DNI.
Next, click on the top left corner to display the options menu. Then select the ‘My fines’ section, where you can check if you have pending fines. If so, the app also offers you the option to make the payment securely by entering your bank details. Another advantage of this platform is that it allows you to carry your electronic driving license without having to carry the physical one with you, as well as being able to see how many points you have on your license.
On the other hand, you can refer to the Road Electronic Address (DEV), an electronic mailbox where you can receive notifications electronically and consult fines. It is previously necessary to register for the service through the DGT Electronic Headquarters, for which an electronic DNI or digital certificate is necessary.