The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) halted the operations of Paytm Payments Bank on January 31, leading to a significant disruption in the availability of FASTags issued by the bank. As a result, Paytm Payments Bank was removed from the list of authorized banks by the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) for purchasing FASTags. This situation has led to long queues at toll plazas as users scramble to obtain new FASTags from other banks. However, a new scam has surfaced amidst this chaos.
The FASTag Scam
Agents at toll plazas offering to issue new FASTags have been scamming unsuspecting users. These agents ask for your details to create a FASTag account with your preferred bank. They inform you that you need to pay a security deposit, a charge for the tag, and a balance top-up. After providing your details, an OTP is sent to your registered mobile number to verify the transaction.
However, once the process is initiated, you may receive a text message from your bank detailing the amount deducted from your account. In some cases, the charge quoted by the agent is higher than the actual amount charged by the bank. Essentially, these agents are scamming you into paying more in the name of security deposits and tag charges, while the bank only charges for the balance top-up.
How to Avoid Extra Charges
To avoid paying extra money, follow these steps:
Deactivate Old FASTag: Before obtaining a new FASTag, deactivate your old FASTag account. Authorized banks will not issue a new FASTag if you have an existing account.
Use My FASTag App: Download the My FASTag app and select the option to buy a new tag through the app. Fill in all the required details, such as the FASTag ID and vehicle details, and complete the activation process. The new FASTag will be delivered to you by Amazon or Flipkart.
Contact Authorized Banks: Purchase a new FASTag by contacting one of the authorized banks. Some of the banks that issue FASTags include:
Airtel Payments Bank
Allahabad Bank
Bank of Baroda
HDFC Bank
ICICI Bank
IDBI Bank
Punjab National Bank
State Bank of India
Yes Bank
Always verify the amount charged by the bank through the text messages received and ensure you only pay the specified amount. This will help you avoid falling victim to scams at toll plazas.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition to a new FASTag without paying extra money or falling prey to fraudulent agents. Stay informed and vigilant to protect yourself from such scams
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