Government authorities alert the netizens about the new scam in the market

A new online scam alert has been warned by Government authorities and Police after it was discovered that cybercriminals are targeting vehicle owners with SMSes that resemble text alerts for traffic challans. The fake e-challan scam alert was sent out by the Information Security Awareness (ISEA) by MeitY. DCP headquarters and Cyber Crime Officer Hemendra Kumar recently told reporters about the scam and warned the public against bogus e-challan links that are being circulated.

How the Scam Works

Firstly these links are being sent through text messages and they appear to be genuinely provided by the Traffic Police. The link will take the user to a fake e-challan website. The user will then be asked to insert their banking details to make the payment for the fake challan. Those who do will have compromised, and the hackers will get access to your credit/debit details.

What to do if you are exploited

If scammers are successful in exploiting you, immediately inform the authorities about it. An immediate call to the 1930- National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and a timely complaint with www.cybercrime.gov.in can also help stop the transaction and save your hard-earned money. Secondly, you must also contact your bank and alert them. The next step is to approach the nearest police station and register a complaint.

Authorities also posted an easy-to-understand graphic on X formerly called Twitter, Authorities sent a new scam alert for everyone saying, “Beware!! If you receive a link for traffic challan, don’t click these links.” It added, “Don’t Fall for E-Challan Scam! Your Safety is Your Responsibility.” The post on X also warned about the consequences of clicking on these fake links.

ISEA also showcased an example of this e-challan message that said, “ Your challan No. is 348915784195032 for PB08DJ8182 having a total challan amount of Rs.500. For online payment of challan visit: https:// echallanparivahan.in/ you can also contact the RTO office For the disposal of the challan. Regards, RTO.”

The genuine link was provided and was: SC Allows Delhi Government to Amend Challenge to Services Law