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I've heard this phrase recently:

  • Are you paying attention for this crucial information?

It's a mistake, isn't it?

I wouldn't ask you about that, if this person wasn't a British one.

Why did she say so?

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    Yes, the standard expression is pay attention to something. Even native speakers don't get their own language right all the time.
    – Kate Bunting
    Apr 8, 2021 at 16:24
  • 'Be alert for' something would be better.
    – Michael Harvey
    Apr 8, 2021 at 17:05
  • Because she mangled her words. It happens. :)
    – FeliniusRex - gone
    Apr 8, 2021 at 17:53

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In spoken English such a construct is possible. If I tell someone to Pay attention for the mail, what I'm actually suggesting is that they Pay attention for [the arrival of] the mail. The same understanding would apply to crucial information.

I would not suggest writing this way but people often shortcut their speaking in this manner.

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