E-Challan Scam Alert: Fake RTO Apps Target Vehicle Owners
In Raipur, cybercriminals have come up with another method to lure vehicle owners into their trap. Impersonators are spreading counterfeit messages which assert they are from the RTO or traffic police. Such messages have a link that allows the user to get an APK file called “RTO e-challan” on their device.
Generally, unsuspecting users may readily obtain the application, confusing it with an official notification of a traffic challan. Without the knowledge that the app has malicious intent, it will basically hijack the phone, steal private data, and give the frauds the ability to wire money out of your bank account directly. There have already been multiple such incidents.
The RTO, as well as the police in Raipur, have jointly given a public notice about this deception. They explained that legitimate e-challans are not sent through random download links.
Normally, e-challan information is posted, texted, or handed over by the traffic police to a registered mobile number. The details of the offence along with the image and description, can also be sent through WhatsApp after receiving consent from the vehicle owner, but without requesting any further download of the APK file.
To be safe from scammer traps, officials have asked citizens to do it only through official means of checking the authenticity of challans.
According to them, the safest way is through the Transport Department’s website (echallan.parivahan.gov.in). Below is the correct method:
Go to the e-challan portal.
Enter your challan number and captcha code.
An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
Once verified, the complete challan details will be displayed.
This method is secure and ensures that no third-party applications compromise your data.
One of the tactics that scammers use is to pretend that they are the offenders who committed the traffic violations so that the fake messages look realistic. Regardless, people are advised not to open strange links or download installation files from sources that they do not know.
Through caution and trust in the authenticity of the platforms, car owners can shield themselves from cyber fraud and at the same time be sure that their challans are paid in a secure way.
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