Fake ‘e-challan’ WhatsApp scam targeting citizens

 

 

IN 2026,cyber criminals are increasingly targeting Nagpurians through a highly specialisedWhatsApp scam. This fraud involves sending malicious APK files disguised as official e-challans, often using stolen credentials or impersonating police personnel to gain trust. A recent case study involves a Nagpur resident, Pranay Mahajan, who received a WhatsApp message at 12.40 pm claiming a Rs 2,000 fine for a traffic violation. The message included his actual vehicle number, a forged challan number and an attached APK file. Pranay realised it was a scam because his vehicle had been parked outside his home all day, a fact he confirmed via CCTV. By refusing to click the file, he prevented malware from infecting his phone and stealing his banking data.

 

Fraudsters often use WhatsApp display pictures with official police logos to appear legitimate. The Nagpur City Police recently dismantled a cyber syndicate that misused 80 mule accounts for transactions exceeding Rs 21 crore.This gang used similar methods, sending malicious APK files to steal OTPs, personal data, illegal on-line gaming and lured job seekers business promises. At least six other victims in Nagpur were recently identified in a single coordinated cyber-investigation involving identical data-theft methods. Authorities emphasise that Government agencies never send challans or APK files via WhatsApp. People should use the official to check for legitimate fines.

 

In case any one receives such a message, block and report the number immediately. And in case anyone clicks on the suspicious link, they should not waste time and immediately call the National Cyber crime Helpline at 1930 and report the matter. In such cases, timing is most important, as authorities can block the transfer of fund or even reverse the transaction within 24 hours of the incident.