Pune Traffic Police Warns Vehicle Owners Against Fake WhatsApp Challans and Cyber Scams
Pune Traffic Police Warns Vehicle Owners Against Fake WhatsApp Challans and Cyber Scams
Pune, November 3, 2025: The Pune Traffic Police have issued a public advisory warning vehicle owners and drivers about a surge in fake traffic challan messages being circulated on WhatsApp by cybercriminals posing as traffic officials.
According to authorities, fraudsters are sending messages claiming that the recipient has been issued a traffic challan, along with links or payment requests. These messages often appear authentic but are part of a scam designed to steal personal or financial information.
Officials have highlighted several red flags that citizens should watch out for. Suspicious apps such as “Traffic Fine” or “RTO Challan” are being shared through unknown numbers. Similarly, links that do not end with “.gov.in” or those not connected to the official website parivahan.gov.in should be avoided.
The Pune Traffic Police have also cautioned against making payments through personal UPI IDs such as those ending with @okaxis or @paytm, as genuine challan payments are never requested through such platforms.
Residents are urged not to click on unfamiliar links, download unknown applications, or share personal information with unverified sources. If anyone receives such messages, they should alert friends and family to prevent further spread of the scam.
Victims or those who receive fake messages are advised to report them immediately by calling 1930, visiting cybercrime.gov.in, or filing a report through CHAKSHU on sancharsaathi.gov.in. FIRs can also be lodged at the nearest police station or cyber cell. The police emphasize — Stay alert, stay secure.
