Fake RTO E-Challan Scam Alert: One Click Can Empty Your Bank Account, Cyber Police Issue Warning

With the growing use of digital payments and online traffic challans, a dangerous cyber fraud has begun spreading rapidly across India. A fake RTO e-challan scam is targeting unsuspecting citizens through convincing messages that appear to be official traffic violation notices. Cyber police have issued a strong alert after several people lost lakhs of rupees within minutes of clicking on fraudulent links or files.

Recent cases reported from Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad highlight how cybercriminals are exploiting fear and urgency to trick people into compromising their mobile phones and bank accounts. Authorities are urging citizens to remain extremely cautious and verify every traffic challan only through official channels.

How the Fake RTO E-Challan Scam Works

According to reports, fraudsters send messages that closely resemble genuine traffic challan notifications issued by transport authorities. These messages usually claim that the recipient has violated traffic rules such as overspeeding, signal jumping, or illegal parking.

The message often includes a warning that strict action will be taken if the challan is not paid immediately. To make the threat appear real, scammers attach a payment link or send a file, encouraging users to click quickly to “avoid penalties.” Out of fear, many people click without verifying the source.

Mobile Phones Get Hacked Within Seconds

Cyber police investigations have revealed that in many cases, victims received an APK file on WhatsApp labeled as “RTO Traffic Challan” or something similar. The moment this file is downloaded and installed, malware enters the phone.

This malicious software gives scammers complete control over the device. They can access banking apps, read SMS messages, intercept OTPs, and even steal private data stored on the phone. Once access is gained, money is siphoned off from the victim’s bank account without delay.

Recent Cases Raise Serious Concerns

Several alarming incidents have been reported recently. In one case from the Sinhagad Road area of Pune, a person received a fake challan message and later a phone call from someone claiming to be an RTO official. Trusting the caller, the victim followed the instructions and soon discovered that nearly ₹5 lakh had been withdrawn from his account.

In another case from Pimpri Chinchwad, a 45-year-old man downloaded an APK file sent via WhatsApp. Within minutes, around ₹2.49 lakh was transferred out of his bank account. By the time he realized what had happened, the money was already gone.

Why Scammers Prefer Weekends and Holidays

Cyber police have observed a clear pattern in these scams. Fraudsters often send such messages on Friday evenings, weekends, or public holidays. During this time, banks and customer support helplines may be slower to respond, making it difficult for victims to block transactions immediately.

Scammers take advantage of this delay to carry out multiple transactions quickly. In several cases, even WhatsApp accounts of victims were compromised, allowing fraudsters to target more people using trusted contacts.

How to Protect Yourself from Fake E-Challan Scams

Cyber police have clearly stated that government departments never send APK files through WhatsApp or SMS. Any message asking you to download an app or file to check or pay a challan is fraudulent.

To stay safe:

• Never click on unknown links or download files received via SMS or WhatsApp

• Verify traffic challans only through official transport or traffic police websites

• Do not share OTPs, banking details, or personal information with anyone

• If you accidentally download a suspicious file, immediately turn off mobile data and Wi-Fi

• Uninstall the app at once and consider resetting your phone if necessary

Act Quickly if You Receive a Suspicious Message

Cyber police have urged citizens to report such incidents immediately. If you receive a fake challan message or suspect fraud, contact the cyber crime helpline or visit the nearest cyber police station without delay. Prompt reporting increases the chances of blocking transactions and recovering money.

Timely complaints also help authorities track and dismantle organized cybercrime networks operating behind these scams.

Final Warning for Digital Users

As digital services expand, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit trust and fear. The fake RTO e-challan scam is a reminder that one careless click can lead to massive financial loss. Staying alert, verifying information, and acting quickly can protect you from becoming the next victim.

Cyber police continue to monitor the situation and urge the public to spread awareness so that fewer people fall into this dangerous trap.