Mangaluru: The Mangaluru City Police have issued a strong public warning cautioning vehicle owners against cyber fraud related to payment of traffic fines, clarifying that fines for traffic rule violations can be paid only through the official Parivahan website, Karnataka One centres or at police stations. There are no authorised mobile applications for paying traffic fines, city police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has reiterated.
The clarification comes in the wake of an increase in cyber fraud attempts following the government’s implementation of a scheme offering discounted rates for the payment of pending traffic fines. Taking advantage of public interest in the scheme, fraudsters have begun targeting vehicle owners by circulating fake links, websites and mobile applications, misleading them into believing these are legitimate platforms for e-challan payments.
According to the police, these fraudulent activities have already resulted in financial losses for citizens within the city limits, prompting authorities to intensify public awareness efforts.
Fake apps and APK links targeting vehicle owners
Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy stated that cyber fraudsters are sending links to unsuspecting vehicle owners, claiming that traffic fines can be paid by installing an application through the link. These links often prompt users to download APK files, which are not available on official app stores and are designed to bypass standard security checks.
Once the APK file is downloaded and installed, the victim’s mobile phone gets compromised. Fraudsters gain unauthorised access to personal data stored on the device, including contacts, messages and banking applications. In several cases, fraudsters have used one-time passwords (OTPs) received on the phone to transfer money directly from victims’ bank accounts.
Within the Mangaluru city limits, at least two individuals have already lost money after installing such fake applications, the police commissioner confirmed. Investigations are ongoing to trace the perpetrators and prevent further incidents.
Fake websites and payment links in circulation
Apart from malicious mobile applications, fraudsters are also circulating fake websites and payment links through SMS, WhatsApp, email and other social media platforms. These messages falsely claim to provide quick and easy payment options for e-challan fines, sometimes highlighting discounted rates to lure users.
When vehicle owners click on these links and enter their details, sensitive information such as vehicle registration numbers, mobile numbers, banking credentials and card details can fall into the hands of cyber criminals. This information is then misused for financial fraud, identity theft and unauthorised transactions.
The police have stressed that no government department or police authority sends payment links directly to citizens through messaging platforms.
Official modes of traffic fine payment clarified
Reiterating the official position, commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy clarified that traffic fines related to rule violations can be paid only through the following authorised channels:
- The official Parivahan website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
- Karnataka One centres
- Designated police stations
He categorically stated that neither the police department nor the state or central government has released any mobile application for paying traffic fines. Any message or advertisement claiming otherwise should be treated as fraudulent.
The commissioner also cautioned the public not to trust unauthorised messages promising discounts or limited-time offers for fine payments through unofficial platforms.
Advisory to citizens on cyber safety
In view of the growing cyber threat, the Mangaluru City Police have issued a detailed advisory urging citizens to remain vigilant. The police have advised the public not to click on suspicious links received via SMS, WhatsApp, email or social media, even if the messages appear official or urgent.
Citizens have been specifically cautioned against sharing OTPs, bank account details, debit or credit card information, passwords or any other sensitive data with unknown persons or websites. The police emphasised that no legitimate authority will ever ask for such information.
Vehicle owners have also been advised to independently verify their traffic fines by visiting the official Parivahan website rather than relying on third-party messages.
Helplines for reporting cyber fraud attempts
To ensure quick action and support for victims, the police have provided contact details for reporting suspicious messages and cyber fraud attempts. Citizens who receive fake links or messages related to traffic fine payments can inform the Mangaluru City Police control room by calling or sending a message on WhatsApp to 9480802321.
Additionally, victims of cyber fraud or those seeking guidance can contact the National Cyber Helpline by dialling 1930. The police have urged citizens to report incidents promptly, as early reporting can help prevent further financial loss and assist in tracing fraudsters.
Conclusion
With cyber criminals increasingly exploiting public schemes and digital payment systems, the Mangaluru City Police have underscored the need for heightened awareness and caution among vehicle owners. By using only authorised platforms for traffic fine payments and avoiding suspicious links and applications, citizens can protect themselves from financial loss and data theft. The police have assured continued efforts to combat cyber fraud while appealing to the public to stay alert and informed.