Top News

Received an E-Challan Message? Be Cautious! Your Bank Account Could Be Drained; Government Advises What Not to Do
Siddhi Jain | May 27, 2026 8:15 PM CST

Fake E-Challan Alert: In today’s digital age, cyber fraudsters are attempting to swindle people by sending fake E-Challan messages via WhatsApp and SMS. Clicking on such links could pose a serious threat to you.

Fake E-Challan Alert: In the current digital era, cybercrime is on the rise day by day. Cyber ​​fraudsters are adopting novel methods to target unsuspecting individuals. Now, scammers are preying on people by sending fraudulent E-Challan messages on WhatsApp. These messages claim that your vehicle has violated traffic regulations and that a corresponding challan (fine) is pending. Furthermore, a link is included in these messages, prompting the recipient to click on it to make the payment.

What is the Claim?

Regarding the specific claims made, the fraudulent messages state that your vehicle has been flagged for a traffic violation and warn that legal action may be initiated if the challan is not paid. Accompanying this is a link; clicking on it triggers the automatic download of an APK file onto your mobile device. Additionally, these messages often utilize names such as “Traffic Police Department” or “Vehicle Sahyog” to lend an air of authenticity and easily gain people’s trust.


What is the Truth Behind the Claim?

It is important to note that PIB Fact Check has officially declared such messages to be completely fraudulent. The government has explicitly advised against trusting any E-Challan messages received via WhatsApp or through any unknown links. This is because clicking on these links can result in the download of malicious APK files onto your mobile device, potentially leading to your phone being hacked and your banking credentials being stolen. Therefore, do not place any trust in such messages.

Avoid These Mistakes at All Costs:

First and foremost, never click on any unknown or suspicious links.
Additionally, do not install any APK files received via WhatsApp, SMS, or email.
If you receive such a message, never attempt to pay the challan through the provided fraudulent payment link.
Remember: never share your banking details or personal information with anyone. What is the correct way to check for a challan?

If you wish to check for information regarding a challan issued for your vehicle, you should always verify it exclusively on official government websites. Do not place your trust in any such fraudulent messages.

Where should you report suspicious messages?

Please note: If you receive any suspicious messages or content purportedly linked to the Government of India, you can report them to PIB Fact Check.
WhatsApp: +91 8799711259
Email: factcheck@pib.gov.in

READ NEXT
Cancel OK