Pune: Pimpri Chinchwad Police Warn Citizens About Fake Traffic Challan Scam
Cyber fraudsters in Pimpri Chinchwad have launched a new scam targeting unsuspecting citizens with fake e-challan messages. These fraudsters are impersonating traffic police and sending SMS or WhatsApp messages claiming that recipients must pay a traffic violation fine of ₹500 within 24 hours to avoid legal action.
The messages include fraudulent links like mahatrafficechallan.in and pune-trafficpay.com, which redirect users to fake websites designed to look like official government portals. Once users click the link and enter sensitive details like card numbers, UPI credentials, and OTPs, the scammers immediately siphon off money from their accounts. Victims have reported losing up to ₹50,000 in such scams.
Senior Inspector Ravikiran Nale of the Cyber Police Station clarified, “The Traffic Department only issues challans through its official website. No e-challan is sent via third-party links, WhatsApp, or SMS. Citizens should not trust such messages.”
One of the victims (name withheld) shared his ordeal: “I received a challan message, clicked the link, entered my UPI details, and entered the OTP. Moments later, ₹17,000 was debited from my account. I later realised I was scammed.”
Fraudsters make these scams appear genuine by using correct vehicle numbers, personal information, and official-looking website designs. They create urgency by mentioning terms like court notice and license suspension to trick people into making payments quickly.
Cyber Safety Guidelines by Pimpri Chinchwad Cyber Police:
- Never click on unknown links.
- Do not share OTPs, card details, or PINs.
- Verify challans only on the official website: https://mahatrafficechallan.gov.in
- Report cyber fraud immediately via the cyber helpline 1930 or at www.cybercrime.gov.in
The Pimpri Chinchwad Cyber Police have urged all citizens to remain alert and spread awareness about this scam to prevent further frauds.
