Hyderabad: The Hyderabad City Cyber Crime Police warned the public about a surge in cyber fraud involving fake e-Challan links, which are sent through SMS and WhatsApp to deceive users.
Police said fraudsters sent messages claiming that vehicle traffic challans were pending, often embedding fake links to e-Challan portals. They urged recipients to make immediate payments using links shared in the messages.
Officials said the fraudulent links closely resembled official government websites, increasing the risk of mistaking them for genuine e-Challan portals.
Once users clicked the fake links, the sites asked for vehicle registration numbers. The pages then displayed a challan amount to gain trust and manipulate victims.
However, when victims tried to pay, malware entered their phones or hackers stole banking details. This led to unauthorized transactions and mobile hacking using disguised e-Challan links.
Police issue safety advisory for challan payments
Cyber Crime Police advised citizens to pay traffic challans only through official government portals, avoiding any potentially fake e-Challan links.
Police clarified that government departments never send payment links through WhatsApp or personal messages. They also warned people not to share OTPs, UPI PINs, or card details on unverified sites linked to fake challans.
Officials urged users to install apps only from official app stores. They also advised keeping phones updated with security patches and antivirus software to combat threats from fake e-Challan links.
In case of cyber fraud, police told victims to disconnect mobile data or Wi-Fi immediately. They advised contacting banks to block cards or transactions without delay, especially if compromised by fake links.
Victims should dial the national cyber fraud helpline 1930 or file complaints at cybercrime.gov.in. They can also approach the nearest Cyber Crime Police Station for issues related to fake e-Challan links.
Deputy Commissioner of Police V. Aravind Babu said quick action could prevent further losses and help track fraudsters abusing fake e-Challan links.