LAHORE: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked over a 100 fake and phishing websites for illegally collecting online payments from the citizens by using the name and logo of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA).

The action was initiated against these websites after the PSCA identified and recommended them to the PTA.

A spokesperson for the PSCA said that the authority marked the fake and phishing websites for defrauding citizens in the name of e-challan.

He said that these fraudulent websites were illegally collecting online payments from the citizens by misusing the names and logos of PSCA and e-challan, deliberately misleading the general public and were found involved in committing fraudulent financial activities.

The spokesperson suggested to the citizens not to make any e-challan payments on unverified, suspicious or unofficial websites.

For e-challan verification and payment, citizens were advised to use only the official Punjab Safe Cities Authority website (echallan.psca.gop.pk) or the Public Safety App.

He further stated that scope of the legal actions against individuals and groups involved in creating fake Safe City websites, fraud and public deception have been expanded.

A zero-tolerance policy is being strictly enforced to ensure financial protection of citizens. The PSCA remains committed to safeguarding public trust and financial security through modern technology, transparent systems and effective enforcement, while continuing to provide reliable and secure public services across the province, the spokesperson concludes.

Published in Dawn, January 22nd, 2026