Cyber Crime Police issue an urgent alert in Mumbai warning citizens against fake traffic e-challan scams and SIM hijack frauds targeting mobile users through WhatsApp and bogus credit card offers.

Mumbai: The Mumbai Cyber Crime Police have issued a strong advisory warning citizens about a new wave of online scams — from fake traffic e-challan messages on WhatsApp to SIM hijack frauds through bogus credit card offers.
According to officials, cybercriminals are impersonating traffic police officers on WhatsApp, sending fake messages containing malicious links designed to trick users into downloading harmful files or revealing personal details.
The advisory highlights several red flags citizens should watch for:
Messages from unknown WhatsApp numbers claiming to be from traffic police.
APK files with suspicious names like “Traffic Fine” or “RTO Challan”.
Payment requests made through personal UPI handles.
Links that don’t end with “.gov.in” or aren’t related to parivahan.gov.in.
“Citizens must avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files and should never transfer money through personal UPI handles,” the police advisory stated.
In another alarming trend, cyber cops have also warned about SIM hijack frauds linked to fake credit card offers. Scammers contact victims posing as bank representatives, offering ‘lifetime free’ or ‘high-limit’ credit cards. They then collect sensitive identity details like PAN, Aadhaar, mobile number, and date of birth under the pretext of KYC verification.
Once they have the information, fraudsters approach telecom providers claiming the user has lost their phone and initiate a SIM swap. With control over the victim’s mobile number, they gain access to bank OTPs, UPI verifications, and online transactions, swiftly draining funds from the victim’s account through mule accounts or digital wallets.
Officials added that victims are often pressured into sharing data immediately or asked to verify details via fake bank websites or forms.
The cyber police urge citizens to remain cautious and recognize early warning signs such as:
Credit card offers received without any formal application.
Requests for KYC verification via WhatsApp or phone calls.
Sudden mobile network loss despite an active plan.
Unauthorized OTPs or transactions from bank accounts.
Public Advisory:
If you receive such suspicious messages, do not respond or click any links. Report them immediately to the National Cyber Crime Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) or contact the local cyber police station.
Cyber officials emphasize that awareness is the best defence against such digital frauds — urging Mumbai residents to verify all messages, stay alert, and never share personal information over insecure platforms.
— Reported by UnderCover Editor News Agency

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