A new cyber fraud is on the rise in Nagpur and surrounding areas, with scamsters targeting unsuspecting citizens through WhatsApp by sending fake traffic e-challan messages. Cyber Police officials have confirmed multiple complaints regarding this scam and have urged the public to stay vigilant.
The scam involves WhatsApp messages that appear to be official notices from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or Traffic Enforcement Department. These messages inform recipients of alleged traffic violations and provide a challan number such as:
Challan Number: VA4516SDG4S168DG
Violation: Red Light Jump
Amount Payable: ₹1,000
The message typically instructs the user to download an application via a link labeled as mParivahan.apk (8.6 MB), which falsely claims to show photographic or video evidence of the traffic violation.
Modus Operandi of the Scam
Once the user downloads and installs the APK (Android Package Kit) file, the malicious app seeks several sensitive permissions, including access to:
• Contacts
• SMS messages
• Call logs
• Notifications
In some cases, the app attempts to become the phone’s default messaging application. Once granted, it can steal personal information, intercept OTPs (One-Time Passwords), and forward critical data to the fraudsters—leading to unauthorized financial transactions and identity theft.
Official Advisory
Cyber Police officials have cautioned citizens not to click on unknown WhatsApp links or download APK files from unofficial sources. Traffic departments do not send challans or ask for payments via WhatsApp.
Instead, citizens are advised to verify any traffic violation details only through official government portals such as:
• https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in
• State Transport Department websites
What to Do If You Receive Such a Message:
• Do not download or install any APK sent through WhatsApp.
• Report the number to Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or file a complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in.
• Immediately uninstall the malicious app if already downloaded and run a security scan on your phone.
With the increasing sophistication of digital scams, the Cyber Police urge citizens to stay alert and refrain from sharing personal or banking details through unofficial platforms.
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