Viral News: What to Do If Money Is Deducted from Your FASTag While You’re at Home?
Imagine you're sitting comfortably at home when suddenly, a message pops up on your mobile phone informing you that money has been deducted from your FASTag account. The alert would surely surprise you, especially since you haven't crossed any toll plaza. This scenario recently unfolded for Sunderdeep Singh, a resident of Ludhiana, Punjab, and the CEO of Prinspire Technologies.
Unexpected Deduction Sparks Outrage
Singh took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration. He explained that while he was relaxing at home, he received a message stating that ₹220 had been deducted from his FASTag account. The deduction was made at a toll plaza in Punjab, a route he hadn’t traveled on in the entire month.
Demanding Answers from NHAI
Disturbed by the unexpected deduction, Singh sought clarification from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and shared a screenshot of the message. His post quickly went viral, with social media users rallying in his support and questioning the integrity of NHAI.
Others Share Similar Experiences
Singh's case resonated with many, prompting others to share their own experiences. Siddharth Gupta, a user, recounted how he had been facing similar issues for over a year. Someone else had apparently used his car’s registration, leading to repeated fines and deductions from his FASTag account. Despite multiple visits to the police and the bank, Gupta found no resolution.
Another user advised against purchasing a FASTag linked directly to one’s bank account, suggesting instead that it be bought through a third party. They also recommended keeping the balance low or topping up the wallet just before travel to avoid such issues.
NETC’s Response
The National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) system responded to Singh’s post, advising him to contact his bank for further assistance. However, this advice has left many wondering whether this is a systemic issue that needs broader attention.
What to Do If You Face a Similar Issue?
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Contact Your Bank Immediately: If you notice an unauthorized transaction, reach out to your bank right away and lodge a complaint regarding the FASTag transaction.
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Reach Out to NHAI: Call the NHAI helpline to report the issue. They can help escalate your complaint for further investigation.
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Alert Your FASTag Provider: Raise the issue with your FASTag provider and demand an inquiry.
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Regularly Monitor Your FASTag Account: Keep an eye on your account activity and take immediate action if you spot any discrepancies.
Balancing Technology with Caution
While technologies like FASTag have made travel more convenient, they also come with potential risks. It’s essential to remain vigilant and periodically check your accounts to avoid any unpleasant surprises. In today’s digital age, a little caution can go a long way in safeguarding your finances.