Fake Traffic Challan SMS Costs Hyderabad Man ₹6 Lakh: How to Protect Yourself from Such Cyber Scams

Cyber fraud cases are rising at an alarming pace in India, and scammers are finding increasingly convincing ways to trap unsuspecting citizens. In a recent incident from Hyderabad, a man lost ₹6 lakh from his bank account after clicking on a fake traffic challan link sent via SMS.

The message claimed that he had violated traffic rules and needed to pay a ₹500 fine immediately through a link provided in the SMS. Trusting the message, the victim clicked on the link, entered his details—and within minutes, a large sum of money was siphoned off from his account.

How the Scam Worked

According to a report by Hindustan Times, cybercrime police have launched an investigation into the case. Fraudsters are sending fake traffic challan messages to vehicle owners, directing them to fraudulent websites that closely resemble official government portals.

In this case, the link opened a webpage that looked like an authentic traffic challan payment site. As soon as the victim entered his payment details, the scammers allegedly gained access to his phone and banking credentials. Shortly afterward, money was withdrawn from his account without his knowledge.

In some cases, merely clicking such links can install malicious software on the phone, allowing hackers to remotely control the device and access sensitive information.

What Cyber Police Are Saying

Cybercrime officials have issued a clear warning: traffic or transport departments never send direct payment links via SMS, email, or WhatsApp. Citizens are never asked to make immediate payments through such messages.

Police authorities stress that scam messages often create urgency, pressuring people to pay quickly. Any message that demands instant action should be treated with extreme suspicion. Users are advised never to click on links received through unknown or suspicious messages.

How to Check Your Traffic Challan Safely

Authorities recommend checking traffic challans only through official government websites. Citizens should visit
echallan.parivahan.gov.in or their respective state traffic police website and manually enter their vehicle number to verify details.

Other safety tips include:

• Be cautious of messages from unknown numbers
• Watch out for spelling mistakes or unusual wording
• Never share card details, PINs, or OTPs on unfamiliar websites
• Download apps only from Google Play Store or Apple App Store

Where to Report Cyber Fraud

If you receive a suspicious message or believe you have been targeted by a scam, report it immediately on the National Cyber Crime Portal or call the cybercrime helpline number 1930.

Additionally, keep your phone’s software updated and enable two-step verification wherever possible. Law enforcement agencies repeatedly emphasize that government departments do not demand instant payments via SMS.

Staying alert and verifying information through official channels is the strongest defense against such cyber frauds. A moment of caution can save you from a lifetime of regret.