What are e-challan scams and how vehicle owners can spot them

Internet users have recently become aware of a troubling new scam kwn as e-challan scam, which has caused significant financial losses for several victims. This scam tricks people into thinking y need to pay fake fines for traffic violations. government has issued warnings to help vehicle owners recognise se scams and protect mselves from becoming victims.

So, what exactly is an e-challan?

An e-challan is a digital ticket a vehicle owner receives for breaking a traffic rule. It is issued by Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and can be generated through various methods, such as traffic cameras or devices used by traffic police.

Here’s how e-challan scam operates:

When someone violates a traffic rule and is caught by law enforcement, y usually get a mess that informs m about ir fine and offers payment options. However, in this scam, victims receive a similar mess from unkwn or ufficial sources. se fake messs often appear very convincing. y might include vehicle owner’s name, vehicle number, and sometimes even ir driving license number, making it hard to doubt ir legitimacy.

Typically, mess contains a link that claims it will take you to a site where you can pay your fine and resolve issue. Unfortunately, se links lead to fraudulent websites that mimic official government site. If a vehicle owner enters ir banking details re, scammers will steal information.

So, how can you protect yourself from se scams?

First, vehicle owners need to be cautious if y receive messs from unkwn numbers instead of official contact numbers from MoRTH. Pay close attention to link in mess. If it does t end with “gov.in,” it’s likely a scam. Genuine e-challan messs will include important details about your vehicle, such as engine and chassis numbers, and will be directed to official government website at echallan.parivahan.gov.in. In contrast, fraudulent messs often change URL slightly, such as using “echallan.parivahan.in” instead. Always ensure payment link ends with “gov.in” to confirm i i's legitimate.