As digital payments and online toll services expand across India, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit unsuspecting motorists. A fresh wave of fraud linked to FASTag recharges and so-called “annual passes” has prompted a public warning from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Authorities say fake websites and fraudulent QR codes are being used to steal money and sensitive banking details from drivers.
The scam has spread rapidly in recent months, with victims reporting unauthorized withdrawals after attempting what appeared to be legitimate FASTag updates. Officials are urging citizens to verify every payment request carefully and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Fraudsters typically send SMS or WhatsApp messages posing as officials from NHAI or toll authorities. These messages often claim:
Your FASTag balance is low
Your KYC needs urgent updating
Your FASTag will be blocked immediately
You are eligible for a discounted “Annual FASTag Pass”
The message usually contains a link to a fake website or a QR code for payment. Once the user enters details such as FASTag ID, vehicle number, banking information, or OTP, scammers gain access to their account. In many cases, money is deducted within minutes.
In some reported incidents, criminals have even pasted fake QR codes on toll plaza signboards, misleading drivers into scanning them during travel.
According to officials, complaints have increased significantly since late 2025, with cumulative losses running into crores of rupees nationwide.
Several motorists across states like Rajasthan, Delhi, and Maharashtra have reported losing thousands of rupees after interacting with fraudulent links. In one case, a commuter received a message claiming his FASTag was about to expire. After scanning a QR code and completing a payment process, ₹5,000 was debited from his account without authorization.
In another incident, a driver avoided a ₹3,000 loss by verifying recharge details through the official app instead of clicking on the suspicious message link. These cases highlight the importance of digital awareness.
Officials emphasize that verifying the website URL is the first and most critical step.
The official website of the National Highways Authority of India is:
nhai.gov.in
Fraudulent websites often use look-alike domains such as:
nhai-online.in
nhaitollpass.com
fastagannualoffer.in
Red flags to watch for:
Spelling mistakes in URLs
Unusual payment instructions
Requests for OTP via call or message
Pressure tactics like “Recharge Now or Tag Will Be Blocked”
QR codes from unknown sources
Remember, official agencies do not ask for OTPs or confidential banking details through random calls or messages.
To stay safe, motorists should only use verified platforms such as:
Rajmargyatra App (official highway app)
MyFASTag Portal
Authorized bank websites and mobile apps
Avoid using links shared through SMS, WhatsApp, or social media unless verified independently.
Here are some practical tips to protect yourself:
Always type the official website URL manually into your browser.
Never share OTP, FASTag ID, or vehicle details with unknown callers.
Enable SMS alerts for all banking transactions.
Regularly check FASTag balance through official apps.
Avoid scanning QR codes placed randomly at toll plazas.
Do not trust offers that promise “lifetime” or “cheap annual FASTag passes.”
If you suspect fraud:
Immediately block your bank card.
Report the incident on cybercrime.gov.in.
Call the NHAI helpline at 1033.
File a complaint with your local police station.
India’s rapid adoption of digital toll collection through FASTag has made highway travel smoother and cashless. However, the same convenience is being exploited by cybercriminal networks.
Authorities stress that awareness is the strongest defense. Before making any payment, verify the authenticity of the source. A few seconds of caution can prevent significant financial loss.
As NHAI continues to monitor and crack down on fraudulent activities, motorists are encouraged to remain vigilant and rely only on official channels for FASTag services.
Digital India offers speed and simplicity—but safety must come first.
