Cancún Authorities Warn of Fake Traffic Ticket Scam Targeting Drivers

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Authorities in Cancún are warning drivers about a new digital fraud scheme where motorists receive text messages demanding payment for fake traffic violations, just as the state considers implementing automated traffic enforcement systems.

The scam involves messages sent via SMS or messaging apps claiming the vehicle owner has an unpaid “photo ticket” and threatening vehicle impoundment or additional fines if immediate payment isn’t made through a provided link.

“I’ll read you the message I received: ‘Final notice, unpaid traffic violation, avoid sanctions and your vehicle being impounded tomorrow at: https//www.multassase.cc/mx,’ but I don’t know if it’s fraud or not,” said Miguel Espinosa, one affected driver.

Another driver, who requested anonymity, said they fell for the scam and made a payment, only to find the website link was no longer accessible afterward.

The Benito Juárez Municipal Police Traffic Department confirmed the situation is fraudulent and urged residents to avoid opening links and not provide personal or banking information.

The department clarified that they do not send sanctions via messages with payment links or request deposits through external pages, as the automated traffic enforcement system has not yet officially launched in the city.

“If a violation exists, it’s notified through official channels or via a ticket issued by traffic officers,” Traffic Department representatives said.

According to citizen reports, the fraudulent notices include fake case numbers, supposed deadlines for payment, and warnings about more severe penalties.

The scam has emerged as the state discusses implementing photo radar systems as part of a traffic safety program promoted by the Quintana Roo Mobility Institute (Imoveqroo). The proposal would use cameras and radar to detect violations like speeding in Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Chetumal, but the plan remains under analysis and hasn’t been implemented.

“There can’t be fines if there are no signs, and then they would be illegal because there aren’t speed limit signs at traffic lights or where the cameras would be,” said driver José Antonio Salas.

Two other drivers agreed that implementing such a system could help prevent extortion but said an information campaign should first clearly explain how and when it would be applied to prevent deception.

The Traffic Department reiterated that no vehicle can be impounded for an alleged violation notified only through a message and urged citizens to stay alert and verify any information only through official channels.