Beware of fake traffic fine scam: North Cyprus minister warns public

Northern Cyprus Public Works and Transport Minister Erhan Arıklı has warned citizens about fraudulent messages demanding payment for traffic violations allegedly detected by traffic cameras that are not yet operational.

According to Arıklı, scammers have been sending text messages claiming, “You have committed a traffic offence, deposit the fine to this account”, in an attempt to deceive the public.

In a statement on his social media account, Arıklı clarified that the new traffic cameras have not yet been activated.

“When they do become operational, fines will initially be issued only for speeding offences,” he explained. “For other violations, warning messages will first be sent, and fines will only be applied after a decision by the Council of Ministers.”

The minister urged the public to remain vigilant and ignore any suspicious messages demanding payment for traffic offences.