Cybersecurity gaps could expose Traffitech users to fraud — Technology Consultant

Technology consultant Maximus Amertogoh has called on the Ghana Police Service to strengthen cybersecurity safeguards around its newly introduced Traffitech-GH system, warning that uncertainty over official notification channels could expose motorists to fraud. He says the authorities must clearly identify the telephone numbers, sender IDs and websites authorised to communicate traffic violations and receive payments under the automated enforcement programme. In a Facebook post, Mr Amertogoh asked how motorists could distinguish genuine notices from messages sent by fraudsters, especially when they weren’t sure which number or website the police would use. “We don’t know which number or website must send us the alerts. Got an alert from a number,” he wrote, urging the authorities to introduce additional security measures to protect users. His concerns come as the Ghana Police Service begins nationwide enforcement under Traffitech-GH, a technology-driven system designed to detect traffic offences and improve compliance with road regulations. The system’s introduction has therefore brought into focus the need for sustained public education, not only on traffic offences and penalties but also on how to verify notices and protect personal and financial information. How the system works The programme, which became operational on November 1, uses cameras and sensors to capture vehicles committing traffic offences, initially focusing on speeding. The evidence is reviewed by authorised personnel before an Electronic Notice of Violation (ENV) is issued to the registered vehicle owner through SMS. The notice is expected to contain details of the offence, including the vehicle registration number, location, date and time of the violation, the applicable fine and the deadline for payment. The police have indicated that the system is intended to reduce reliance on manual enforcement and confront motorists with evidence of their driving behaviour. Police guidance on scam messages The Ghana Police Service has published guidance to help motorists identify genuine Traffitech notifications and avoid fraudulent payment demands. According to its official frequently asked questions, authentic electronic violation notices should carry the sender identification GPS-MTTD . The police also caution motorists against making payments through unofficial links, private telephone numbers or individuals. Payments for Traffitech fines are to be made through the designated government payment portal. Motorists who receive suspicious messages or calls are advised to report them to the police on 191 or 18555.