The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a public warning after flagging a website falsely claiming to provide motor vehicle copy or records and logbook search services.
In an alert on Wednesday, December 10, the NTSA flagged a website dubbed Mverified, clarifying that the platform was not affiliated with the authority in any way. Individuals who fell victim to the fraudulent website were subsequently urged to report to the authorities.
"Mverified website does not belong to NTSA. If you have been conned via this website, report the matter to the nearest police station," a statement from NTSA read.
The authority further clarified that the official process for obtaining Motor Vehicle Copy of Records (COR) is only available through the NTSA service Portal, accessible via the eCitizen platform. This is also where one can do a logbook search.
Further, the authority reiterated that the service costs Ksh 550, which was payable through one's eCitizen account. Unlike fake platforms, the authority clarified that the turnaround time was instant.
In its statement, NTSA attached an image highlighting the particulars of the fake website, which claimed to offer real-time searches and verifications of legal documents in Kenya, including motor vehicle ownership, logbook status and COR issuance.
One of the biggest red flags of the website was that it purported to send all requested documents via e-mail or SMS as soon as an individual made a payment.
A quick spot check by Kenyans.co.ke of the fraudulent website also established that unsuspecting Kenyans were being asked for a fee of Ksh 920, whilst services like logbook search services on the official NTSA portal go for Ksh 550.
The paybill number linked to the website directed users to a personal account instead of the official eCitizen account.
The NTSA's clarification came after a concerned Kenyan took to the social media platform X to alert the authority of the platform, which was mimicking its services.
Fraudulent platforms like Mverified tend to emerge towards the end of the year, particularly because this is the time when motor vehicle sales tend to pick. Purchase of locally used cars is usually subject to logbook searches to verify ownership.
Buyers also demand a Copy of Records (COR) because the crucial document contains details of search records, including a car's chassis number, details of the registered owner and name and make of a vehicle.
