Kollam: Authorities have issued warnings about a major social media fraud scheme involving fake e-challan messages distributed via WhatsApp. The messages are attributed to the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) 's mParivahan app.

AI cameras, speed cameras, or direct vehicle checks purportedly generate these fraudulent e-challans. The messages often cite violations such as not wearing a helmet or seatbelt and direct recipients to download an APK file to pay the fine. 

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Transport Commissioner C Nagaraju has clarified that the mParivahan app does not use APK files and is only available for download via official platforms like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. While the fake messages closely resemble genuine ones, a key difference lies in the challan number, as genuine challans have 19 digits, whereas the fake ones have only 14.

The scam is primarily being perpetrated using a phone number that falsely displays the profile of Bengaluru Police.

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Both the MVD and the police have issued warnings on social media to alert the public about the fraud. Officials have emphasised that while WhatsApp messaging has been introduced for official communication in some states, the Kerala MVD has not yet implemented this feature. Furthermore, fine payments cannot be made through links received via WhatsApp.

Last month, the MVD reported a major data leak via a Telegram bot. Investigations revealed that the breach occurred while sharing information through an application programming interface (API) with private agencies for advertising purposes related to a program by the Prime Minister.

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Instructions from MVD

  • Avoid clicking suspicious links: Never download application files (APK) from WhatsApp or other unverified sources.
  • Verify details on the official website: Cross-check any fine-related messages with the official e-challan website  https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in. Alternatively, confirm details through customer care centres.
  • Do not share personal information: If a message requests sensitive details like bank account numbers, passwords, or credit card information, it is fraudulent.
  • Report online fraud immediately: If you encounter online fraud, register a complaint by calling 1930 within an hour or visit the Cybercrime website: https://cybercrime.gov.in.

E-challan customer care
Phone: 0120-4925505
Website: https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in
Email: helpdesk-echallan@gov.in

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