FASTag alert: Don't get scammed! here's what you need to know before buying annual pass

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : If you're planning to purchase or renew a FASTag Annual Pass, beware. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a warning about a major online fraud circulating in the name of FASTag Annual Passes. According to the authority, several fake websites and unauthorized links are deceiving people by promising to sell them Annual Passes.

NHAI officials said that trusting these fake platforms can not only result in financial loss of up to Rs 3,000, but also poses a risk of misuse of sensitive personal and vehicle-related information of vehicle owners.

How is the fraud happening?

According to NHAI, fake websites and unauthorized apps claim to sell FASTag Annual Pass through attractive offers. As soon as the user enters his vehicle and personal details on these links, in many cases the payment is made but the pass is never activated. Some consumers have also reported that the page freezes during payment or the process is stopped on the pretext of vehicle details not being found in the VAHAN database. In such a situation, NHAI has clarified that use only the official platform and stay away from any unknown link or website.

What is FASTag Annual Pass

FASTag Annual Pass is for private vehicle drivers who travel regularly on national highways and expressways. Under this, a one-time payment of Rs 3,000 provides exemption from toll charges for one year or 200 toll journeys (whichever is earlier). This facility is available only through Rajmargyatra App or NHAI's official website. A confirmation is also sent to the vehicle owner through SMS once the pass is activated. However, this pass is not valid at some toll plazas and private expressways, hence it is important to check the route and toll information before travelling.