A cyber fraud case has surfaced in Pune, Maharashtra, highlighting the growing risks of scams on digital platforms. A 57-year-old shopkeeper was allegedly cheated of ₹2.76 lakh after clicking on a fraudulent traffic challan link sent through an SMS. The scammers reportedly gained remote access to his smartphone and used it to carry out unauthorized banking transactions.
The victim realised something was wrong only after receiving alerts of multiple transactions from his bank account. He later filed a complaint, after which authorities registered a case and began an investigation.
Fake challan message used as bait
According to the complaint, the shopkeeper lives in the Sadashiv Peth area of the city. In December 2025, he received an SMS claiming to be a notification from the traffic department about a pending challan.
The message stated that his vehicle had violated traffic rules and that a fine had been imposed. It also included a link directing him to an online portal where he could pay the penalty.
The link looked genuine and closely resembled an official website. Believing the message to be authentic, the victim clicked the link to clear the supposed challan.
Link opened a form asking for details
After opening the link, an online form appeared on his phone asking for details related to the challan payment. The shopkeeper filled in the requested information as instructed.
During the process, a permission request appeared on the screen. Thinking it was part of the payment process, he clicked on the “Allow” option. This action reportedly allowed cybercriminals to access his device.
Remote access allowed fraudsters to control the phone
Investigators found that while the form was being completed, remote access software was installed on the shopkeeper’s phone. Once permission was granted, the fraudsters were able to control the device remotely.
With access to the phone, the scammers navigated through different applications and retrieved sensitive information stored on the device, including banking credentials.
Multiple transactions carried out from bank account
After obtaining the banking details, the accused allegedly made several unauthorized transactions. Within a short time, a total amount of ₹2.76 lakh was transferred from the victim’s bank account through multiple transactions.
The shopkeeper became suspicious after receiving transaction alerts from the bank. He immediately contacted the bank to secure his account, but by then a significant amount had already been withdrawn.
Complaint filed, probe underway
After the incident, the shopkeeper approached cybercrime authorities and reported the fraud. Following initial verification, the complaint was forwarded to the local police station where a formal case was registered.
Investigators are now examining technical evidence to identify the source of the fraudulent link and trace the bank accounts where the stolen money was transferred.
Public warned against clicking unknown links
Cyber security experts say scams involving fake traffic challans, courier delivery notices, electricity bill alerts and bank messages have increased significantly in recent months. These messages often include harmful links that install malware or remote access applications when clicked.
Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Triveni Singh said cybercriminals are increasingly using social engineering tactics to trap victims. “Fraudsters send fake government notices, traffic challans or bank alerts to lure people into clicking on malicious links. Once the link is opened, they gain control over the victim’s device and misuse the banking information stored on it,” he said.
Experts advise people to avoid clicking on suspicious links received through SMS or messaging platforms and to verify challans or official notices only through authorised government websites or applications.
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