A new cyber scam is spreading quickly across India, and bike and car owners are the main targets.
Scammers are pretending to be the government’s Parivahan portal to scare people into paying fake traffic fines.
These fraudsters send alarming SMS messages with fake links, and clicking on them can lead to serious financial loss.
How the Fake Parivahan Challan Scam Works
In this scam, you receive an SMS from an unknown number, often starting with +91.
The message claims that you have broken traffic rules and must pay a challan immediately.
It also warns that legal action will be taken if you delay.
The SMS includes a link that looks like a government website.
However, this link does not belong to the real Parivahan portal. It is designed only to trap users.
Fake Links That Look Like Government Websites
Scammers use website names that closely resemble official ones, with slight spelling changes such as extra letters or rearranged words.
At first glance, the link looks genuine and professional, just like a real government portal.
Because of fear and urgency, many people click without checking carefully.
This is exactly what the scammers rely on.
Why Clicking the Link Is Dangerous
Once you open the fake link, you may be asked to enter login details, bank information, or card data.
In some cases, harmful software can also get installed on your phone.
This can give scammers full access to your bank account, leading to unauthorized transactions and heavy losses.
A single click can wipe out your savings.
What to Do If You Receive Such an SMS
If you get a message about a traffic challan from an unknown number, do not click on the link.
Do not reply or call back.
Block the number, report it as spam, and delete the message immediately.
No genuine government department pressures citizens through random SMS links.
How to Check Real Challan Details Safely
If you believe you may actually have a traffic challan, check it yourself.
Visit the official Parivahan website by typing the address manually in your browser.
You can also contact your nearest RTO for confirmation.
Avoid trusting any link sent via SMS, WhatsApp, or social media.
How to Stay Safe From Traffic Scams
Always verify traffic fine details only on official government portals.
Be alert to spelling mistakes, urgent threats, and unknown links. Cybercriminals depend on panic and carelessness.
Staying cautious for a few seconds can save you from losing your hard-earned money.
