The rise of cyber scams targeting vehicle owners has taken a dangerous turn with the emergence of a new e-challan scam. Scammers are now sending out official-looking text messages with specific vehicle registration numbers, deceiving recipients into believing they owe fines. One unfortunate victim, a businessman from Pedder Road, lost Rs 3 lakh after falling for this elaborate hoax.
The scam operates by luring victims to download a malicious app, typically disguised as an e-challan viewing tool. Once installed, the app can compromise the user’s phone and financial information, leading to unauthorized credit card transactions and potential identity theft. Cybersecurity experts are warning the public to be cautious of unsolicited messages and to avoid downloading apps from third-party sources.
To protect yourself from falling victim to such scams, it is crucial to invest in reputable anti-virus programs and to only download apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. Always verify the authenticity of an app before installing it on your device to prevent any potential security breaches.
As the threat of cyber scams continues to evolve, it is essential for vehicle owners to stay vigilant and informed about the latest tactics used by scammers. By taking proactive measures to safeguard your personal information, you can avoid becoming another victim of this growing cyber fraud trend.