Czech drivers targeted by smishing scams masquerading as traffic fine notices

Fraudsters are sending SMS messages to drivers in the Czech Republic that claim a vehicle has exceeded the speed limit and demand an immediate payment of a fine. The messages use formal, threatening language and provide a link to a fake website (e.g., spravaos.cfd) that mimics official government portals. Recipients are urged to act within days under threat of further legal action.

Police spokesman Ladislav Beránek confirmed that no state authority in the Czech Republic communicates traffic fines via SMS and warned that the scams often employ anonymous SIM cards and thousands of phone numbers. A new hotline, 7726, has been activated so that the public can forward suspicious messages for verification; confirmed fraudulent messages will trigger warning notices on future texts from the same source. Authorities advise not to click links, not to provide personal or payment details, and to verify any alleged fines directly with the relevant agency.