Pune: Citizens Lose Money to Fake Websites While Booking HSRP, Here’s How to Check Authenticity Before Payment
Pune, 8th April 2025: As the deadline for installing High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) approaches, many vehicle owners in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad are falling victim to online frauds while booking their HSRP plates. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the rising demand by creating fake websites that look almost identical to the official government portal.
Victims have reported financial losses ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000 after unknowingly making payments on these fake websites. These fraudulent sites often appear at the top of search engine results, misleading users into believing they are genuine.
How Are People Getting Trapped?
→ Fraudsters create fake HSRP booking websites with similar designs and layouts to the official portal.
→ Victims search for HSRP booking online and click on the first link without verifying its authenticity.
→ Payment is made through UPI or other online methods, but the confirmation never arrives.
→ By the time users realize the fraud, their money is already gone.
How to Identify the Original HSRP Booking Website?
To avoid falling prey to such scams, vehicle owners should always use the official Maharashtra Transport Department website:
👉 https://transport.maharashtra.gov.in
Steps to book HSRP safely:
- Visit the official website mentioned above.
- Look for the HSRP Registration link on the homepage.
- Fill in the required details and make payment securely through the website.
- Always check the URL starts with https:// and the domain name is correct.
Tips to Stay Safe While Booking HSRP Online:
- Avoid clicking on sponsored ads or unfamiliar links.
- Check the website address carefully.
- Never share sensitive details like OTP or UPI PIN with anyone.
- Look for signs like lock symbol in the address bar indicating a secure website.
- Report any suspicious site to cybercrime authorities.
What is the Government Rule About HSRP?
The Maharashtra government has made HSRP mandatory for all vehicles registered before April 2019. The deadline to get these plates installed is 30th June 2025. Due to the rising demand, people are rushing to book online, unknowingly becoming easy targets for cybercriminals.
Stay alert, verify website authenticity, and use only official platforms for HSRP bookings to avoid financial losses.
