Have you received an e-challan? Be careful! Your bank account could be emptied in one click. Learn how this fraud is happening.

Cyber ​​Fraud: A new online fraud method is spreading rapidly across the country, in which SMS messages are being sent to people in the name of fake "e-challans."

Cyber ​​Fraud: A new online fraud method is spreading rapidly across the country, in which SMS messages are being sent to people in the name of fake "e-challans." These messages claim that a traffic challan has been issued against your vehicle and that immediate payment is required to avoid the fine. The Indian Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has issued an alert regarding the increasing number of such cases.

How does a phishing trap begin?

The SMS received by the victim contains a link. Upon clicking on it, the victim is directed to a website that looks exactly like a government portal. In many cases, this page is designed to resemble the official Parivahan portal of the genuine Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to avoid suspicion.

This is where the real scam begins. The website asks users to enter their vehicle number, mobile number, OTP, and bank or card details. Once these details are entered, cybercriminals misuse this data to withdraw funds from the account or commit further fraud.

Fraudsters exploit fear and haste

These messages often warn of heavy fines or legal action, forcing the person to panic and immediately click on the link. Especially in cities where digital challan systems are common, people often believe such messages to be genuine.

Officials have clarified that legitimate e-challans are issued only through authorized government platforms. Verify any information by visiting the relevant state traffic police website or the official Parivahan portal.

Caution is the best protection

I4C advises people not to click on any unknown SMS links, not to share OTPs, and never to enter banking information on unverified websites. If any fraud occurs, immediately contact the National Cyber ​​Crime Helpline 1930 or file a complaint on the official portal to minimize losses.

Action against Wingo App and Other Platforms

The Ministry of Home Affairs recently geo-blocked servers associated with an app called Wingo. It was described as a telecom mule-as-a-service platform that lured money in exchange for SMS tasks and was being used to spread fake links.

In addition, several Telegram channels and YouTube videos promoting this app were also blocked. Agencies say that several apps and networks are active that spread phishing links through SMS. Android users, in particular, have been warned to avoid downloading suspicious apps.