A case of RTO chalan fraud has surfaced in Raipur, where a young man was allegedly duped of Rs 7.42 lakh by cyber criminals posing as transport officials. The incident occurred in the Tikrapara police station area, raising fresh concerns over rising digital fraud cases in the city.

Victim Targeted

According to police inputs, the victim, Rohit Pal, a resident of RDA Colony, received a call between April 10 and April 16 from an unknown number. The caller claimed to be an official linked to the Regional Transport Office and informed him about a pending e-challan.

APK File Trap

The caller then sent an APK file to the victim’s mobile phone, instructing him to download it and complete the payment process. Believing it to be a legitimate government communication, the victim downloaded the file, unknowingly granting access to his device.

Money Transferred Quickly

Within a short span after the installation, cyber fraudsters allegedly gained control over the victim’s phone and bank-related applications. Officials said a total amount of Rs 7,42,209 was transferred from his account through multiple transactions.

Fraud Detected Later

The victim remained unaware of the fraudulent activity until he received transaction alerts from his bank the following day. The sudden withdrawal messages triggered panic, prompting him and his family to approach the police.

Police Investigation Begins

A complaint was registered by a family member, Pavitra Pal, under Section 66D of the Information Technology Act, which deals with cheating by personation using computer resources. Police have initiated an investigation with the assistance of the cyber cell.

Officials indicated that call detail records, bank transaction trails, and technical evidence are being analysed to trace the accused. “The modus operandi suggests a well-organised cyber fraud network. We are working to identify the suspects at the earliest,” a police officer said.

Rising Cyber Threat

This incident highlights a growing trend of APK-based scams, where fraudsters trick users into installing malicious applications disguised as official links. Cyber experts warn that such apps can access sensitive data, including banking credentials and OTPs, leading to financial losses.

Authorities have repeatedly advised citizens not to download files from unknown sources or click on suspicious links. Government agencies, including transport departments, do not send APK files for payments, officials clarified.

Public Advisory Issued

Police have urged residents to verify any communication related to fines or government payments through official websites or apps. Victims of cyber fraud are advised to report incidents immediately to the cyber helpline or local police to increase the chances of fund recovery.