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Beware: Cyber Scammers Target Vehicle Owners With Fake Traffic Fines
1 Nov
Summary
- Cybercriminals are sending fake traffic challan messages to vehicle owners.
- Eight fraud cases reported this year resulted in collective losses of ₹44 lakh.
- Police advise verifying challan details via official channels only.
Mangaluru City Police have issued a critical cyber fraud alert to vehicle owners following eight reported cases this year that resulted in a collective loss of ₹44 lakh. Fraudsters are disseminating deceptive messages claiming outstanding traffic violations, urging recipients to pay fines through suspicious links or malicious APK files.
Motorists are strongly advised to verify all traffic violation and e-challan details exclusively through official government portals. Downloading APK files from unknown sources or clicking on untrusted payment links can lead to significant financial losses and compromise personal banking information. Sharing sensitive data like OTPs or card details via unverified websites is highly discouraged.
To ensure authenticity, individuals receiving suspicious e-challan notices via SMS or WhatsApp should contact the nearest traffic police station. For physical notices, payments can be made via official Mangalore One or Karnataka One platforms or directly at a traffic police station. The police emphasize exercising extreme caution and verifying all communications to prevent falling prey to these digital scams.
