Srinagar, Dec 23 (JKNS): The Cyber Crime Investigation Center for Excellence (CCICE), Crime Branch Jammu and Kashmir, has issued a public advisory warning people against a rising cyber fraud involving fake RTO challan messages circulated through SMS and WhatsApp.
According to the advisory as per news agency JKNS, cyber fraudsters are sending messages claiming that traffic challans are pending, accompanied by malicious APK files or suspicious links. Once such files are downloaded and installed, the victim’s mobile phone and WhatsApp account get compromised, allowing fraudsters unauthorized access to personal data and contacts.
The cyber criminals reportedly use file names such as “RTO Challan.apk” or “e-Challan App” to mislead users. After gaining control of the device, scammers send fraudulent messages to contacts and may also attempt to access sensitive information, including bank-linked data.
The Crime Branch has identified several warning signs, including messages urging users to urgently download APK files, threats of penalties or legal action, requests to enable unknown sources in phone settings, and receipt of OTPs without initiating any request.
Advising caution, the Cyber Crime Wing urged the public not to download APK files or click on suspicious links received through messaging platforms. People have been advised to verify traffic challans only through official government portals or directly with traffic authorities and to install applications strictly from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Users have also been advised to enable WhatsApp two-step verification and immediately inform their bank if any suspicious activity is noticed. Victims of such frauds have been asked to report incidents promptly by calling the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 or through the official portal www.cybercrime.gov.in.
The advisory clarified that RTO, Traffic Police, or any government department never sends APK files for challan payment and all legitimate challans are available only through authorized platforms.
“Stay alert and stay safe to stop cyber crime,” the advisory reads. (JKNS)
