Warning issued over fake traffic fine messages used to steal personal data

Authorities in Panama are alerting the public to a sophisticated phishing scam that uses text messages impersonating traffic fine notifications. The Autoridad del Tránsito y Transporte Terrestre (ATTT), Sertracen, and Empresa Nacional de Autopistas (ENA) issued a joint warning about the fraudulent scheme.

The scam involves sending text messages that claim recipients have traffic violations and need to pay through provided links. These links lead to fake websites designed to mimic official ENA or traffic fine portals. The ultimate goal is to trick individuals into divulging sensitive personal and banking details, including card numbers and passwords.

Identified fake domains include ena-zpa.com, ena-xpa.com, ena-cpa.com, and ena-etcc.com. Officials strongly advise citizens to avoid clicking on any suspicious links or providing any personal information. They emphasize that all inquiries and payments for traffic violations should only be made through the official channels of the respective institutions. ENA's official website is ena.com.pa. Residents are encouraged to delete suspicious messages and verify any alleged fines directly before making payments.