Cyber Fraud: A new cyber scam is spreading rapidly in India in which bike and car riders are being targeted. This time the fraudsters are trying to trap people by pretending to be the government ‘Parivahan’ portal. Users are threatened with traffic challan through SMS and a fake link is sent, clicking on which can lead to huge losses.
How does fake delivery challan work?
In this scam, people receive SMS from an unknown mobile number which often starts with +91. It is written in the message that you have broken the traffic rules and you will have to pay the fine immediately otherwise legal action will be taken. The link sent along with the SMS looks like a government website but in reality it is completely fake.
Victims are creating fake links that look like Parivahan
Fraudsters use words similar to the real name like Prairvahsan or similar spellings, so that people are not able to quickly understand the difference. The design of the link is also like the government portal, which does not raise any suspicion at first sight. Cyber criminals take advantage of this haste and fear.
Big loss can happen just by clicking on the link
If a person clicks on that link, he may be asked for login details, bank information or saved card data. In many cases, malware can also enter the phone due to which even bank transactions are done without permission. A small mistake can cost you your entire income.
What to do immediately if you receive such SMS?
If you receive an SMS containing such a traffic challan on your phone, then first of all do not click on that link, no matter how important the message may seem. Block and report that number immediately and delete the messages. Don’t answer or call back.
How to check original challan information
If you really think that you might have been issued a traffic challan, then check the information yourself by visiting the official Parivahan website or directly contact your nearest RTO. Instead of trusting any unknown link, the safest way is to manually check the details by visiting the government portal yourself.
How to stay safe from such traffic fraud
If messages related to traffic fines come on SMS, WhatsApp or social media, do not trust them blindly. Always visit the government website and verify the challan number and vehicle information. Remember, a little carelessness can cause huge financial loss to you, so being cautious is the biggest protection.
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