Fake TTE Alert: Beware of fake TTEs and TCs on trains; here is how to identify them
If someone claiming to be a TTE (Travelling Ticket Examiner) or TC (Ticket Collector) asks you for money while you are traveling by train, taking certain precautions can prove beneficial. Find out what you should do in such situations.
Train Fake TTE Alert: Here is important information for train passengers. There have been numerous past instances where fake TTEs have extorted money from passengers under the guise of collecting fines or using other pretexts. If you travel by train, you should know how to distinguish between a genuine TTE and an imposter, as fraudsters often pose as TTEs or TCs to scam passengers before disappearing.
How to identify a genuine TTE?
When a TTE comes to check tickets, you can verify their identity by checking their railway ID, name, and other details. While a uniform and name badge can serve as forms of identification, relying solely on these is not enough to distinguish between a genuine official and a fraudster.
ट्रेन में TTE/TC बनकर ठगी करने वालों से कैसे बचें ? नकली TTE/TC को पहचानने के लिए ये बातें जरूर जान लें#IndianRailways #RailwayRules #TTE #IndianRailgadi pic.twitter.com/qPJWSr5237
— Indian Railway भारतीय रेल (News Update) (@Indianrailgadi) August 22, 2026
What should you do?
If you find the TTE's behavior or identity suspicious, you can immediately ask them to show their official identification; a refusal to produce the ID card could indicate something is amiss.
Know the difference between a TTE and a TC
The responsibility of checking tickets during a train journey lies with the TTE. TCs, on the other hand, are usually stationed at railway stations, platforms, and entry or exit gates. While both have the authority to check tickets, their areas of operation and specific powers differ. Therefore, simply accepting someone's claim that they are a TTE or TC is not enough; you can take appropriate action if you notice anything suspicious.
What to do if you are suspicious?
If you have even the slightest suspicion when a TTE asks for money—whether for a ticket or a fine—first verify whether the official is genuine or an imposter. If you do make a payment, ensure you obtain an official railway receipt.
Also, do not send money to any unknown mobile number. If you suspect someone is posing as a TTE or TC to solicit money from you or other passengers on the train, report the matter to the railway authorities immediately. You can do this by calling the railway helpline number, 139. Timely action can save you from being defrauded.
