A fresh surge in cyber fraud linked to fake RTO e-challan messages has put residents of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad on high alert, with victims losing lakhs of rupees after clicking malicious links or downloading files sent to their phones.

How the fake challan messages trap users

Cyber police said fraudsters are circulating messages that closely resemble official traffic violation alerts. These typically claim that an unpaid challan has been issued for offences such as overspeeding or signal jumping. To create urgency, the messages warn of penalties or legal action unless the recipient clicks a link or opens an attachment.

Once clicked, malware is installed on the phone, allowing scammers to remotely access banking apps, intercept OTPs, and even take over WhatsApp accounts.

Victims lose lakhs in Pune region

In recent days, a resident of Pune reportedly lost ₹5 lakh after following instructions in a fake challan message. In another case from Pimpri-Chinchwad, a man was cheated of over ₹2 lakh after downloading a malicious file.

Police said many victims received an APK file on WhatsApp labelled as an RTO challan. After installation, scammers gained deep access to devices, siphoned money, and forwarded the file to contacts to spread the scam further.

Weekend targeting raises concern

Senior Police Inspector Ravikiran Nale of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Cyber Police Station said fraudsters often strike on weekends and public holidays. “They know it is harder for victims to quickly reach banks or block transactions during these times,” he said.

How to stay safe from fake e-challans

Cyber police and transport officials have urged citizens to follow basic digital safety steps:

  • Never download APK files received via WhatsApp or SMS
  • Do not click links from unknown numbers claiming to be from the Regional Transport Office
  • Verify traffic fines only through official platforms such as the Parivahan e-Challan website or by contacting traffic police directly
  • If a suspicious file is downloaded, immediately turn off mobile data and Wi-Fi, uninstall the app, and consider a factory reset

Police urge prompt reporting

Authorities have appealed to residents to report such incidents immediately to cyber crime helplines or nearby cyber police stations. Early reporting, officials said, can help freeze transactions and prevent further losses while disrupting organised fraud networks.