E-Challan Scam Alert: Cybercriminals Target Drivers With Fake Traffic Fines — Here’s How to Stay Safe

Cyber fraud cases linked to fake traffic e-challans are rising rapidly across the country. Scammers are now using SMS and WhatsApp messages to fool people into paying penalties for violations they never committed. Once victims click on the link embedded in the message, their bank accounts can be emptied within minutes. Alarmingly, these attacks are affecting not only everyday citizens but also high-ranking officials.

This major cyber threat has turned into a nationwide concern. Here’s everything you need to know — how the scam works, common tactics used by hackers, safety measures you must follow, and where to report fraud.

What Is the E-Challan Fraud?

E-challan fraud is a deceptive cybercrime technique in which scammers pose as traffic police or transport department authorities. They send fabricated messages claiming that the user has violated traffic rules such as signal jumping, wrong parking, or overspeeding, and that an immediate fine must be paid.

These messages typically include:

• A suspicious payment link, or

• A downloadable APK file pretending to be an official app

Once a person clicks the link or installs the file, malware gets access to their device. This malicious software can steal:

✔ Banking usernames and passwords
✔ OTPs and credit/debit card details
✔ Sensitive personal information

Some fake websites are designed to look like India’s official portal echallan.parivahan.gov.in, but the domain name is slightly altered to mislead users. In many cases reported in 2025, scammers also sent WhatsApp messages claiming to be from mParivahan, the government’s genuine transport app, pushing victims to install a rogue APK.

Their tactics align with real details — such as correct vehicle registration numbers — which creates a false sense of trust. But remember, authentic traffic authorities never issue challan notifications via WhatsApp or unknown numbers.

How to Protect Yourself from E-Challan Fraud

Preventing this scam is easy if you stay alert and verify before acting. Follow these important safety guidelines:

• ❌ Do not click on unknown links in SMS or WhatsApp messages

• ❌ Never download APK files from unofficial or third-party sources

• ✔ Always check pending challans manually on the official website:
  echallan.parivahan.gov.in

• ✔ Download the real mParivahan app only from the Google Play Store

• ✔ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for all banking apps

• ✔ If a message threatens legal action or asks for urgent payment, treat it as fake

• ✔ Disable “Install apps from unknown sources” on your phone

• ✔ When in doubt, verify with your local traffic police helpline

These small precautions can save you from huge financial losses.

Where to Report if You Are Targeted?

If you receive a suspicious message or become a fraud victim, take action immediately:

📌 File a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal:
👉 cybercrime.gov.in

📌 Call the 1930 cyber fraud helpline — available 24×7
This may help freeze or recover stolen funds if reported quickly.

📌 Report at your nearest police station or cybercrime cell

📌 Inform your bank instantly if unauthorized money is deducted

Reporting plays a crucial role in tracking criminals and preventing further scams.

Stay Alert, Stay Safe

Cybercriminals are constantly devising new schemes to exploit digital services like e-challans. As citizens, awareness is our strongest defense. Before clicking any link, always take a moment to verify — because one wrong tap can lead to your entire bank balance disappearing.

By following the official channels and maintaining digital security practices, you can protect yourself and help curb the growing wave of online traffic fine scams.