A method at a network element for processing a first message destined for an intelligent transportation system station, the method including receiving from a sending entity, or generating, the first message at the network element; based on a source or contents of the first message, performing one of: discarding the first message; or modifying the first message to provide an indication to the intelligent transportation system station of checks the intelligent transportation system does not need to perform, thereby creating a second message; and forwarding the second message to the intelligent transportation system station.