MMDA: Don’t fall for ‘NCAP’ text scams

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Monday warned motorists against falling for fraudulent text messages and fake websites exploiting the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).

The MMDA said scammers have been sending text messages claiming that the recipients’ alleged traffic fines are about to expire and threatening them with a 25-percent late payment penalty if the amount is not settled immediately.

“Please remember [that] MMDA_NCAP is the only legitimate sender of NCAP notifications,” it said, pointing out that the agency’s traffic fines are “fixed” and do not incur interest or late payment penalties.

READ: SC lifts TRO, dismisses 3 petitions vs NCAP

The agency explained that its real-time NCAP notifications do not contain payment links, SMS contact information and the name of registered vehicle owner, and do not allow replies to sender.

“To verify whether your vehicle has an NCAP violation, visit the official May Huli Ka website: https://mayhulika.mmda.gov.ph,” it said, as it warned the public against fake websites posing as the official NCAP portal.

READ: MMDA assures public: NCAP-recorded violations are manually validated

The MMDA also advised the public not to click on suspicious links or buttons to avoid falling victim to scams.

“Always verify the source of any information and use only MMDA’s official platforms. If you receive a suspicious text message or email, report it immediately through the MMDA Hotline 136 or send a message to the MMDA’s official social media accounts,” it said. /cb