The system that was implemented to solve the mishaps of the toll system is somehow creating serious messes. FASTag was proposed as the solution to long queues at the toll booth during trips. However, a recent incident has been making headlines against this system.
The thing is that now the toll tax is being deducted even when your car is parked at home, collecting dust. This raises serious concerns about the transparency and security of the FASTag system.
The incident took place with Bhopal resident Praveen Dubey, who experienced this at firsthand. His car was parked outside his home, yet he read a message that said the toll tax was deducted in Haryana. Even contacting the bank got him no help. When Praveen Dubey contacted the bank, he received no satisfactory answer, nor was his money refunded.
What’s behind this chaos? It could be a mix-up with vehicle numbers, probably the system’s pointing fingers at the wrong car, or maybe it’s FASTag cloning, where shady people copy your tag and swipe your cash. Let’s dig in to get the details.
How to Dodge the FASTag Fraud Trap?
Since we understand your concern, and it has not happened for the first time, just follow these steps to dodge future traps:
Make sure to check your bank-linked FASTag statement regularly and respond right away to any strange activity.
If you believe that your FASTag has been cloned, block it with your bank right away and get a new one issued.
If there is an improper toll deduction, complain right away to the bank's hotline and the National Highways Authority of India's toll-free number 1033.
The Expert Scoop
The cyber expert Shobhit Chaturvedi broke it down for us. He explains that there are three common ways that fraud involving FASTag occurs:
First, the FASTag is cloned by scanning it with a digital device, and then small amounts of money are taken out
Second, the FASTag is cloned and used at other toll plazas
Third, the FASTag is used to access bank accounts that are connected to it.
Similar Event that happened
There was a similar event that happened with another Bhopal resident, Ravi. He said that when his car and FASTag card were at home, money was taken from two separate toll plazas without any travel. Additionally, a cab driver complained that tolls were repeatedly taken out without going through the toll plazas. Toll workers believe the issues could be caused by FASTag cloning or incorrect car numbers.
In conclusion, FASTag is supposed to make your drive smooth, not stressful. So, next time you’re rolling down the road or even just parked at home, make sure to keep an eye on your account and stop getting involved in these fraud traps!
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