Srinagar, Dec 23 (GNS): Cyber Crime Investigation Center for Excellence, Crime Branch Jammu and Kashmir, has issued a public advisory warning citizens about a fake RTO challan APK scam circulating on mobile platforms.
According to the advisory, as per GNS, cyber criminals are sending fraudulent messages through SMS and WhatsApp claiming pending traffic challans or e challans. These messages, the advisory says, contain malicious APK files or links with names such as RTO Challan.apk or e Challan App. “Once installed, the application compromises the victim’s mobile phone and can lead to complete takeover of WhatsApp and other linked accounts.”
The Crime Branch said the fraudsters gain unauthorized access to personal data and may use the infected device to send fraudulent messages to contacts. Sensitive information, including bank details on internet connected applications, can also be accessed.
Explaining the modus operandi, the advisory says that victims receive messages posing as official notices from RTO or Traffic Police. The messages create urgency by threatening penalties or legal action and prompt users to download APK files or enable unknown sources in phone settings. In several cases, users also receive OTPs without initiating any request.
The advisory listed key red flags, including messages asking users to download APK files, communication from unknown senders posing as government authorities, and unsolicited OTPs.
Citizens have been advised not to download or install APK files received through SMS or WhatsApp and to avoid clicking suspicious links. Traffic challans should be verified only through official government portals or directly with the Traffic Police. Users have also been advised to install applications only from authorized app stores, enable WhatsApp two step verification, and immediately inform their bank if any suspicious activity is noticed.
The Crime Branch clarified that the RTO, Traffic Police, or any government department never sends APK files for challan payment. All official challans are issued and payable only through authorized government platforms.
People have been urged to report such incidents immediately by calling the cyber crime helpline number 1930 or by visiting the national cyber crime reporting portal at cybercrime.gov.in. (GNS)