Maharashtra Transport Department Warns Citizens Against Fake Websites, Apps and Fraudulent E-Challan Links
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Mumbai, December 10, 2025: Amid rising cases of financial fraud targeting vehicle owners and drivers across the state, the Maharashtra Transport Department has issued an alert urging citizens to remain cautious of fake websites, suspicious mobile apps (APK files), and fraudulent e-challan payment links.
According to the department, several citizens have reported losing personal information and money through fake platforms pretending to offer services such as driving licences, vehicle registration, and e-challan payments. Fraudsters are increasingly sending SMS or WhatsApp messages with alarming statements like “challan pending” or “your licence will be suspended,” along with unauthorised payment links designed to extort money. The Transport Department clarified that neither RTO offices nor the department ever send payment links via WhatsApp.
Officials further warned against downloading unknown APK files such as “RTO Services.apk”, “mParivahan_Update.apk”, or “eChallan Pay.apk”. Installing these apps can compromise sensitive data stored on mobile phones, including OTPs, banking details, and other confidential information.
Citizens have been strictly advised to use only official government websites with the gov.in domain for transport-related services. These include:
- VAHAN (Vehicle Registration): vahan.parivahan.gov.in
- SARATHI (Driving Licence Services): sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
- Transport Services Portal: parivahan.gov.in
- E-Challan Portal: echallan.parivahan.gov.in
The department has urged people not to submit personal details on websites with domains such as .com, .online, .site, or .in for transport services.
In case of suspicious messages or links, citizens should immediately report them to the National Cyber Crime Portal at cybercrime.gov.in, the Cyber Fraud Helpline 1930, or at the nearest district cyber police station, said Joint Transport Commissioner (Computer) Shailesh Kamat.
