Know important things to avoid e-challan scam

Recently, cases of e-challan scam are continuously increasing. The Government of India has issued alerts to protect citizens from such frauds. Scammers are cheating people by adopting various methods and stealing their personal information and misusing it. If you are not careful, these fraudsters can even access your bank account.

How is e-challan scam? (Different Types of E-Challan Scams)

Scammers adopt many methods to commit fraud in the name of e-challan. Let us know about some of their common methods:

1. Fake SMS and Email:
   • Scammers send people SMS or emails saying “urgent action needed”.
   • These messages often accuse you of violating traffic rules, which you have never committed.
   • A link is given along with the message, on clicking which you are asked to make payment.
2. Fake Payment Website:
   • Scammers send a link to a fake website, which looks like the official website.
   • As soon as you make payment on that website, your bank account data falls into the hands of scammers.
3. Cheating by posing as fake traffic police:
   • Many scammers scare people by pretending to be traffic police.
   • They say that if you do not pay the challan immediately, you will have to face legal action.

How to avoid e-challan scam? (How to Avoid Fake E-Challan Scams)

Take these precautions to avoid e-challan scam:

1. Use the official website:
   • To pay e-challan always visit the official website of the government. https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in/ Use only.
   • Be sure to check the URL before clicking on the link.
   • The URL of a legitimate website starts with “https”, while a fake website may start with “http”.
2. Beware of unknown calls, SMS or emails:
   • Treat any call, SMS, or email coming from an unknown number with suspicion.
   • If you receive any suspicious message, report it to the police immediately.
3. Don’t fall into the trap of instant payment:
   • Scammers often pressure you to make payment as soon as possible.
   • In such a situation, do not panic and first investigate the matter thoroughly.
4. Do not share personal information:
   • Do not share your personal information like bank account number, OTP or password with any suspicious website or person.
5. Contact only through authorized numbers:
   • For information related to e-challan, contact only the authorized traffic police helpline number.