La Paz’s traffic authority is warning residents and visitors about a scam in which fraudsters send fake traffic violation notices by text message and email, directing recipients to bogus websites designed to steal banking information.
The Dirección General de Seguridad Vial y Transporte (General Directorate of Road Safety and Transport) confirmed it never sends fine notifications or collects payments through digital links of any kind. The agency said the fraudulent messages typically claim the recipient owes money for a traffic violation and include a link to an unofficial payment portal.
How the Scam Works
Scammers send messages via SMS, email, or messaging apps that mimic official government communications. The messages urge recipients to click a link and enter personal or financial details to pay an alleged fine. In some cases, the links lead to websites that harvest credit card numbers, bank account credentials, or other sensitive data.
This type of phishing attack is not unique to La Paz. Cybersecurity firm Bitdefender reported in April 2026 that fake toll and traffic fine text scams are surging globally, with Spanish-language versions targeting users across Latin America. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued its own warning in May 2026 about scammers impersonating government agencies with fake traffic ticket messages.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message
La Paz authorities say the rule is simple: do not click any link, do not enter any personal information, and do not make any payment. Legitimate traffic fines in Baja California Sur are not issued or collected through text messages, emails, or online links sent to your phone.
If you believe you have an actual traffic fine, you should verify it in person at the municipal transit office. Anyone who receives a suspicious message should report it to one of three agencies. The Municipal Cyber Police can be reached at 612 205 5244. The state attorney general’s Cyber Division (FGE) takes reports at (612) 165 5280. The State Cyber Division is available at 612 175 0400, extension 1043 or 1027.
A Growing Threat in Baja
Digital scams targeting foreign residents and tourists have increased across Mexico in recent years. In La Paz, a city with a large expat community along the Malecón and in neighborhoods like El Centenario and El Comitán, English and Spanish speakers alike are potential targets. Scammers often cast a wide net, sending thousands of messages in hopes that a small percentage of recipients will respond.
The warning was first reported by BCS Noticias.