E-Challan Scams Resurface: Here's How To Identify Fake Links.

New Delhi, India: The Indian government and cyber experts have warned of a new online scam targeting people through the e-challan system. Scammers are using fake links and text messages to cheat people by misusing the e-challan system which was introduced in 2012 and fully implemented by 2017 that allows people to pay fines for traffic violations online.

Beware… A new vehicle on the Fraud Street: E-challan scam. pic.twitter.com/CEAHl1FQa2

— Tamal Bandyopadhyay (@TamalBandyo) October 29, 2024

Scammers send bogus SMS alerts or emails with fake links claiming that you have pending e-challans. These links may look similar to the original e-challan website. If you click on these links, fraudsters can hack into your bank account directly.

Also, read| Bengaluru Airport: Woman Loses Rs 87,000 After Downloading Fake App For Lounge Access

The government has identified two types of links that scammers are using to commit fraud. In an advisory message, the authorities gave an example of a bogus SMS alert about pending e-challans which is being sent to people these days.

ORIGINAL LINK: https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in/

FAKE LINK: https://echallanparivahan.in/

Additionally, people are receiving bogus SMS alerts, such as:

“Your vehicle has been issued an e-challan. Click here to pay the fine immediately: [https://echallanparivahan.in/]”

or

“Pending e-challan: Pay Rs. [amount] within 24 hours to avoid penalties: [https://echallanparivahan.in/}”

The authorities have warned not to click on these links or respond to these messages which are designed to steal your personal and financial information.

While paying traffic fines online you should ensure that you receive an SMS alert with a link to pay the challan on the city traffic police website. The challan includes a snapshot of your vehicle, time stamp, and location of the violation.

How to avoid this situation?

To protect yourself from e-challan Scams, follow these simple guidelines proposed by the government:

• When encountering e-challan links or SMS alerts, exercise caution.
• Verify the link’s authenticity before clicking. Always use the official e-challan website to check and pay fines.
• Refrain from responding to suspicious SMS alerts or emails.
• Safeguard your bank account and personal information.
• If you receive a dubious e-challan link or SMS, promptly report it to the authorities.

Also, read| Indians Lose Rs 120 Crore To Digital Arrest Scams – Know Warning Signs And Stay Safe