Czech drivers warned about new scam demanding toll and fine payments

Czech drivers are being warned about a new wave of fraudulent SMS messages that falsely demand payment for motorway tolls, traffic fines and other road charges, according to CENDIS and the Ministry of Transport. The messages imitate official communication and are designed to pressure recipients into acting quickly.

Authorities say the scam typically involves claims of unpaid fees connected to the electronic motorway vignette system or tolls, and includes urgent warnings about penalties or legal consequences. The goal is to push people into clicking links leading to fake payment pages.

“Today we have recorded an increased number of enquiries from people who received such messages. We recommend not responding, not clicking links and not entering any data,” CENDIS spokesperson Radka Nastoupilová said, adding that scammers rely on fear and urgency.

Officials stress that official systems for tolls and electronic motorway vignettes never send payment requests via SMS or email, nor do they ask users to enter sensitive personal or payment details through links in messages.

The fraudulent messages often include threats such as mounting penalties, vehicle restrictions or even court proceedings, designed to convince recipients that immediate action is required. In some cases, the texts claim overdue debts and add fake late-payment charges to increase pressure.

Drivers who click on the links are typically redirected to counterfeit websites that closely resemble official portals. These pages are designed to collect bank card details and other personal information, which can then be misused for financial fraud.

CENDIS has also warned that scammers are operating a wider network of unofficial websites posing as legitimate vignette sellers. These platforms often charge unnecessary service or handling fees, leading to higher costs for motorists and potential complications with managing their electronic vignette.

The Ministry of Transport has previously highlighted similar cases involving overpriced resale websites for electronic motorway vignettes. It advises consumers to be careful when purchasing online and to check whether the provider is authorised. The ministry also maintains a regularly updated list of known fraudulent and unofficial domains.

Drivers are urged to use only official channels such as edalnice.cz or edalnice.gov.cz when purchasing electronic vignettes. These can also be bought through authorised outlets including Czech Post branches and selected petrol stations. Anyone unsure about a suspicious message is advised to contact the official customer helpline for verification.