NT Reporter | Panaji
Goa Police on Wednesday issued an advisory alerting citizens about fake traffic challans being circulated through WhatsApp messages, where fraudsters are using police logos and photos to deceive unsuspecting people.
“Don’t click any links or share details or download any .apk file. Verify challan only on https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in,” police posted on its social media page.
Police said that citizens can report such incidents at 1930 or http://cybercrime.gov.in. The advisory was issued after a social media user posted about receiving such a fake message. The person had received a message claiming to be from an enforcement agency.
The message read, “Dear vehicle owner, we regret to inform you that a traffic violation has been recorded against your vehicle for violating traffic rules by jumping red light signal.”
The fine amount was said to be Rs 1,000. To verify and view photographic evidence related to the violation, the user was asked to access the mParivahan mobile application through a link provided in the message.
Police said that it is one of the common frauds referred to as APK (Android Package Kit) fraud, wherein scammers send malicious APK files through WhatsApp or other means, disguising them as legitimate documents or updates.
“If installed on the phone, it can transfer the phone’s control to fraudsters, leading to the theft of banking credentials and financial losses,” said a senior police officer.
Police also cautioned that similar scams have previously targeted vehicle users through fake e-challan websites, where fraudsters, under the pretext of collecting money for traffic violations, defrauded users. Such incidents have been reported in different parts of the country.
Goa Police advised citizens to remain alert and to always verify challans only through the official government portal. They warned the public not to make any e-payment through suspicious websites or download any application from unauthorised links, as these could result in financial loss and data theft.
