Kerala Police issue warning over fake traffic fine SMS scam targeting vehicle owners

Kerala Police have warned the public about a rise in online financial fraud involving fake SMS messages about traffic violations and CCTV enforcement. Fraudsters send messages pretending to be official notices from the Motor Vehicles Department to people's mobile phones. These messages often include the recipients' real vehicle registration numbers and falsely claim that a traffic violation was caught on camera. They tell recipients to click on a link inside the message to pay the fine.

Scam Methods

The messages are designed to look very authentic, including fake reference numbers and shortened web links. Clicking these links leads users to fake webpages that copy the official Motor Vehicles Department website. Once there, users are asked to type in sensitive details like bank account numbers, debit or credit card numbers, CVV codes, and OTPs to pay the fine. The police state that sharing these details allows scammers to steal money from bank accounts.

What To Do

Authorities advise people to stay alert and avoid paying fines through unfamiliar links sent by text message. Instead, vehicle owners should check if they actually have pending fines by visiting the official Parivahan or e-Challan websites. The police also warn citizens never to share bank details, OTPs, or card information with anyone, and to avoid opening or forwarding suspicious links. Victims of online financial fraud should report it right away by calling the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or visiting the official portal at cybercrime.gov.in.

Context

Online financial scams using fake government text messages have become common across India, often targeting citizens with urgent alerts about unpaid bills, fines, or account blocks. These frauds rely on urgency and official-looking details to trick people into giving away sensitive financial information. Checking official government portals directly is one of the best ways to avoid falling for such online traps.