Police have warned the public about a scam involving a fake website designed to look like GOV PAY and used to steal money and sensitive personal information from motorists.

The Police stated the fake website was being promoted through links sent to mobile phones via SMS and WhatsApp messages, with people being tricked into making payments for traffic offences through the fraudulent platform.

The Police stressed that there is no separate website through which payments can be made using GOV PAY and urged motorists not to click on suspicious links or provide their financial or personal information.

The GOV PAY system was introduced earlier this year to allow motorists to pay fines for traffic offences online, with the aim of making the payment process more convenient and reducing the risk of financial fraud.

Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Traffic W P J Senadheera urged motorists to be particularly cautious and said payments through GOV PAY should not be made through any website other than the official platform.