In Kolkata, cyber-fraudsters are sending bulk SMS messages that look like official traffic challan notices. The texts carry a payment link to a spoofed website closely resembling the government’s Parivahan portal. A motorist who clicked the link and entered payment details was immediately charged, with around ₹60,000 siphoned from his bank account. Police say multiple similar complaints have surfaced, and have issued public advisories urging residents not to click unsolicited challan links. Instead, they advise verifying and paying traffic fines only through the official government website or app.
- Prevention Tip:
- Always check and pay challans only on the official Parivahan portal or state transport app. Never click on links sent by SMS or WhatsApp even if they look official.
- Amount paid: ₹60,000
- Date: September 2025
- Evidence: Claimed
- Sources: Source
- Actions tried: Police/FIR
- Outcome: Lost
- City: Kolkata
- Sector: Transport
- Trap Type: Phishing
Story
In Kolkata, cyber-fraudsters are sending bulk SMS messages that look like official traffic challan notices. The texts carry a payment link to a spoofed website closely resembling the government’s Parivahan portal. A motorist who clicked the link and entered payment details was immediately charged, with around ₹60,000 siphoned from his bank account. Police say multiple similar complaints have surfaced, and have issued public advisories urging residents not to click unsolicited challan links. Instead, they advise verifying and paying traffic fines only through the official government website or app.
Quick Facts
- Date: 20250919
- Amount paid: ₹60000
Prevention Tip
Always check and pay challans only on the official Parivahan portal or state transport app. Never click on links sent by SMS or WhatsApp even if they look official.
Actions Tried
- police_fir
