'Don’t fall for fake messages'; MVD warns of WhatsApp scam targeting vehicle owners

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A new online scam is making the rounds in Kerala, with fraudsters impersonating the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) to deceive people through WhatsApp messages. The fraudulent messages claim that a fine has been imposed on the recipient’s vehicle and urge them to click a link to download an app and make the payment to avoid legal consequences.

Once installed, however, the app — disguised under the name mParivahan — gives hackers access to the victim's phone, allowing them to siphon money directly from bank accounts. Victims across multiple districts have already reported financial losses to the police.

The Motor Vehicle Department has issued a strong warning against such scams, especially as messages are now being circulated in Malayalam, accompanied by an APK file attachment named mParivahan. Authorities stress that under no circumstances should recipients download or open such files.

Facebook post shared by MVD Kerala:

Don’t fall for fake messages

Several complaints have surfaced stating that people are receiving WhatsApp messages titled “Traffic violation notice” in Malayalam, along with an APK file named mParivahan. Earlier, such fraudulent messages and traps were sent in English, but recently, they've begun appearing in Malayalam as well.

These messages are fake. If you open the file, hackers may gain access to sensitive information on your phone, including bank details and passwords. Therefore, do not open any APK files received in this manner.

The Motor Vehicles Department or police do not send challan details via WhatsApp. Official e-challan information is sent as SMS to the mobile number registered with your vehicle's RC.

If you receive such a message, go to the official site https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in and use the "Check Pending Transaction" option by entering your vehicle or challan number to verify whether any fines are actually pending.

If you lose any money due to such a scam, immediately call 1930 to report the fraud.