Delhi Police Issues Urgent Warning About Fake Traffic Challan Messages
Residents of Delhi are being targeted by a sophisticated cyber fraud scheme involving fake traffic challan messages. The Delhi Police has issued an urgent public warning about these malicious texts that are circulating widely through WhatsApp and SMS platforms.
These fraudulent messages claim that recipients have pending traffic fines and pressure them to click on links that install dangerous malware on their phones. The police have noted a significant increase in complaints about these scams in recent days.
How the Scam Operates
The fake messages are designed to create panic among vehicle owners. They typically mention a specific challan amount and even include the recipient's vehicle registration number to appear legitimate. This attention to detail makes the scam particularly convincing.
Victims receive messages prompting them to download an attachment titled "RTO CHALLAN.apk" to make immediate payment. However, this APK file contains malicious software that gives fraudsters remote access to the victim's smartphone.
"Fearing heavy fines, many people click on the link, which results in their phones being hacked. Fraudsters then gain remote access, putting victims at serious risk of financial loss," explained a senior police officer.
Official Communication Channels
Police officials have clarified that Delhi Traffic Police never issue challans through APK files, external links or unidentified messages. Genuine traffic violations captured on CCTV cameras are communicated exclusively through official SMS alerts that carry verifiable sender codes.
"No traffic police unit, bank or government agency sends APK links on SMS or WhatsApp," emphasized another officer. "Citizens must check the sender code carefully and treat any message from personal numbers with suspicion."
The police have already received multiple complaints from individuals who were tricked into downloading the malicious APK file. These victims now face the risk of having their bank accounts drained and personal information stolen.
Protection Measures and Immediate Actions
Authorities advise citizens to verify challan status only through the official Parivahan portal or the Delhi Traffic Police website. These are the only legitimate platforms for checking and paying traffic fines.
If someone has accidentally downloaded or installed a suspicious file, they should take immediate action:
- Switch the phone to airplane mode immediately
- Delete the suspicious file completely
- Reset the device to factory settings
- Change all passwords using a secure phone
Additionally, users are advised to keep the "installation from unknown sources" setting disabled on their Android devices and enable Google Play Protect for added security.
Police have urged citizens to report any suspected cyber fraud incidents to the 1930 cyber helpline or through the official portal at cybercrime.gov.in. Quick reporting can help prevent further damage and assist authorities in tracking the perpetrators.
This warning comes as cyber criminals increasingly target smartphone users through seemingly official communications, exploiting the trust people place in government and law enforcement messages.
