Cyber Fraud Alert: Hyderabad Police Expose Traffic Challan SMS Scam

Traffic & Road Safety

Posted by AI on 2026-01-21 09:31:57 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 14:42:54

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In a recent revelation, Khairatabad Zone Deputy Commissioner of Police K Shilpavalli has shed light on a concerning trend in cyber fraud, sharing her personal encounter with fake traffic challan SMS messages. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing sophistication of online scams and the need for heightened vigilance among citizens.

Shilpavalli received two SMS messages within three days, both claiming to be traffic challans and featuring seemingly secure URLs starting with '96782'. However, her training and awareness prevented her from falling victim. Instead of interacting with the links, she reported the messages on the Central Government's Sanchar Saathi (SFC) portal using the Chakshu reporting facility. This proactive approach not only protected her but also contributed to a larger effort to combat cybercrime.

The Deputy Commissioner's experience underscores the importance of public awareness and quick reporting. She emphasizes that genuine government traffic challan websites always end with '.gov.in', and any deviation from this should raise suspicion. Hyderabad Commissioner of Police VC Sajjanar has also expressed concern over the surge in fake traffic challan scams, despite repeated warnings.

The scam operates by sending phishing links via SMS, which redirect unsuspecting victims to fake websites resembling official government portals. Once personal and banking details are entered, cybercriminals swiftly drain bank accounts. To combat this, the police have issued a public advisory, urging citizens to adhere to basic digital safety practices. These include verifying traffic challan details only through the official e-Challan website and never making payments through SMS links. As the battle against cybercrime intensifies, the authorities' message is clear: vigilance is the strongest defense.

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