📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Vanshiikaa
Crime
Gangtok Traffic Police Warn Against Fake WhatsApp e-Challan APK Scam
✍️ India Today NE
🗓 17 Jul 2026, 06:03 AM
👁 4
Gangtok traffic authorities have cautioned commuters that a fake WhatsApp e‑challan application is circulating, urging users to avoid downloading the APK and to verify official sources.
Police officials in Gangtok have issued a public warning on Thursday, alerting commuters that a counterfeit WhatsApp e‑challan application has been circulating in the city. The app, which claims to allow drivers to pay traffic fines via the messaging platform, is not authorized by the state transport department and could compromise users’ personal data.
According to the traffic police, the fraudulent APK is designed to generate fake challan receipts and extort money from unsuspecting motorists. Victims have reported being prompted to transfer funds to a private account after receiving a notification that a traffic violation had been recorded.
The authorities urge residents to download the official e‑challan app only from the government’s website or the Google Play Store and to verify any links shared on social media. For further assistance, the Gangtok Traffic Police have set up a helpline at 1800‑123‑456.
According to the traffic police, the fraudulent APK is designed to generate fake challan receipts and extort money from unsuspecting motorists. Victims have reported being prompted to transfer funds to a private account after receiving a notification that a traffic violation had been recorded.
The authorities urge residents to download the official e‑challan app only from the government’s website or the Google Play Store and to verify any links shared on social media. For further assistance, the Gangtok Traffic Police have set up a helpline at 1800‑123‑456.