Fake RTO Challan Scam On WhatsApp: Your Bank Account Is At Risk, Here's How To Stay Safe

We have seen a lot of scams running via social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and more. And the latest one is being operated on WhatsApp. In the latest one, the scammers are pretending to be the officials from the mParivahan service and sending fake traffic challan messages to the users. Multiple users have reported that they received messages from numbers claiming to represent the e-Parivahan or the Traffic Enforcement Department. These numbers demand payment for false violations. A message from a number that goes like [phone] says that the receiver of the message jumped a red light and owes a fine of Rs 1000. The message consists of a fake challan number and a link prompting the user to download an app or check the details

of the same. Of course, the link is a malicious one with the potential to compromise the security of the phone.

How Fake RTO Challan Scam On WhatsApp Works?

All the victims receive a message from an official looking number with the subject 'Legal Proceedings,' 'Challan Number,' or 'Traffic Violations Notice.' These scammers ask the victims to download the app or click a button to see the video/photo evidence. Once the user clicks on the same, they are directly taken to a malware website. Scammers are so polished that they use language that sounds pretty official. For example, one of the messages read, 'This incident has been documented and is subject to legal proceedings.' The messages seem like they have been auto-generated by the Traffic Enforcement Department.

How To Stay Safe From Fake RTO Challan Scam On WhatsApp?

First things first, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and mParivahan never send challan notifications through WhatsApp. All the official e-challans are only available on the official website of the Parivahan portal.Also Read: Amazon Delivery Scam: Bengaluru Techie Receives Tile Instead of Galaxy Z Fold 7 Worth Rs 1,87,000, All Details Here Apart from that, if you receive a message on WhatsApp, first check the profile image; most probably, it will be a random photo. Even in case you are doubtful, don't download any challan or click any link from unknown sender. Furthermore, don't share any personal details or anything related to your vehicle with the scammers.