Pune : Transport Dept Warns Citizens Against Fake RTO Websites, WhatsApp Payment Links Amid Rise In Cyber Fraud Cases
Pune, 16th March 2026: The regional transport office (RTO) of Pune has warned citizens against fake websites, mobile applications and fraudulent links being circulated through SMS and WhatsApp that claim to offer services related to driving licences, vehicle registration and e-challan payments.
A senior official said the advisory was issued following the rise in such cases in recent times. According to the department, such platforms are being used to cheat people and obtain their financial and personal information.
The RTO officials said citizens must use only official transport department websites that carry the “.gov.in” domain while accessing services. They have also urged people not to make payments through links sent via WhatsApp and to avoid downloading unauthorised APK applications.
“Citizens must report suspicious messages or links by contacting the cyber helpline at 1930, visiting the website www.cybercrime.gov.in, or lodging a complaint at the nearest cyber police station” the officer said.
