Online payment scams linked to traffic fines are becoming increasingly difficult to detect, causing many people to fall victim without realising it. A post on X (formerly Twitter) has brought attention
to a new method being used by fraudsters, in which users are targeted through fake e-challan messages.
The post warns that even cautious users may be at risk, as these fraudulent pages appear to operate like legitimate payment portals while silently collecting personal details.
Post Warns How Fake E-Challan Pages Steal Data Before Payment Is Made
Many vehicle owners in India are accustomed to receiving messages related to traffic fines, making such scams easier to carry out. The post shared on X explains that fraudsters are now using more sophisticated tactics that do not rely on users completing a payment. Instead, personal data is quietly captured in the background as soon as details are entered.
In his post, the user wrote, “This new e-challan scam in India via SMS is smart. They do not wait for you to enter details and press a button. As you add your details, it keeps storing it on the backend. Even if you realise midway that this is a scam and close the website, you are already compromised.”
Along with the warning, he shared a photo showing what looks like an official traffic fine payment page. The image shows a “Pay Traffic Fine” screen with card payment options and a form asking for cardholder details. At first glance, the page appears genuine, which makes it easy for users to trust it and start entering information.
https://x.com/mehulmpt/status/2013595249009140065?s=20
Internet Calls For ‘Strict Punishment’
Shared on January 20, the post has crossed one lakh views. Many users reacted by sharing safety advice and personal opinions.
One of them wrote, “Before clicking on any link, copy it, open it in private mode, check the URL properly and don’t enter any input unless fully satisfied.”
Another said the headline itself could mislead people into thinking a government website was hacked. Some comments showed anger and frustration.
A person wrote, “Bhai, if you even click the link in the first place, you are so done.” Another said, “I thought e-challan is a scam by gov.”
A few users blamed people for falling for such links, while others called for strict punishment. A comment read, “At least 20 years should be granted in imprisonment under organised crime to stop this forever.”
How the E-Challan Scam Works
If you own a vehicle, staying alert is crucial. Fraudsters send fake e-challan messages that closely resemble those issued by traffic police. These messages contain links that redirect users to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and financial data.
The scam typically begins with an SMS prompting you to pay a traffic fine. The link in the message leads to a page that appears official and requests personal or payment details. In some cases, simply clicking the link can give hackers access to your phone or data. Scammers may also intimidate users by calling from numbers labelled “City Control Room” or “E-Challan Recovery.”
Tips To Stay Safe
To protect yourself, avoid clicking on links received via SMS or messaging apps.
Never share OTPs, PINs, or card details with anyone you do not trust.
Make payments only through official websites that end with “.gov.in.”
The official e-challan site is https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in/
Cybercrime can be reported by calling 1930 or visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in.
