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

(What is fake e-challan fraud)

Cyber ​​Fraud: A new online fraud method is spreading rapidly across the country, in which people are being sent SMS messages claiming to be fake "e-challans." These messages claim that a traffic challan has been issued against their 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 fishing net start?

The SMS the victim receives contains a link. Clicking on it takes them 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 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 money from the account or commit further fraud.

Thugs take advantage of fear and haste

These messages often threaten hefty fines or legalThugs take advantage of fear and haste.s to immediately click on the link. Especially in cities where digital invoice systems are common, people often believe these messages to be genuine.

Officials have clarified that valid e-challans are only issued through authorized government platforms. Please verify any information by visiting the respective 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, Caution is the best protection.nking information on unverified websites. If you encounter any fraud, immediately contact the National Cyber ​​Crime Helpline at 1930 or file a complaint on the official portal to minimize the damage.

Action on the Wingo app and other platforms

The Ministry of Home Affairs recently geo-blocked servers linked to an app called Wingo, which 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.

Additionally, several Telegram channels and YouTube videos promoting the app were also blocked. Agencies say there are numerous apps and networks active that spread phishing links via SMS. Android users, in particular, have been warned to avoid downloading suspicious apps.