Govt has made mandatory for vehicles to have a ‘High Security Registered Plate’ (HSRP), and as a result, vehicle owners are registering for the plate online. However, this has led to a rise in cybercrime, with criminals creating fake websites to trick vehicle owners into providing personal and financial details. The police have issued a stern warning urging vehicle owners to exercise caution when registering for HSRP.
The government has an official website for HSRP registration: https://transport.maharashtra.gov.in. Despite this, cybercriminals are creating fake websites that mimic the official one and are spreading links through social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and various other sites. These links often come with messages promising people that they can "click to get the HSRP number plate delivered to their home."
There are about two crore 10 lakh vehicles in Maharashtra that must install the HSRP by 2019, with the deadline now extended by three months. After this, a fine of Rs 10,000 will be imposed on vehicles without the plate. This extension has given cybercriminals more time to exploit the situation.
How Cyber Fraud Happens:
Fake Payment Links: Cybercriminals create fake links where vehicle owners are prompted to enter their information to pay the Rs 450 fee for HSRP registration. These criminals then ask for ATM card numbers and passwords to process the payment, committing fraud with this information.
APK File Fraud: When a victim clicks on the fake link or enters their mobile number on the fraudulent website, they receive an ‘APK file’ containing the HSRP certificate or number plate. If the victim downloads this file, it gives the cybercriminals access to their phone, enabling them to empty the vehicle owner's bank account within moments.
Precautionary Measures: Citizens should verify websites and links before entering any personal details. Always cross-check links via trusted sources and avoid clicking on suspicious links shared on social media platforms.
If you fall victim to cyber fraud, immediately contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930, or file an online complaint on the National Cyber Crime Registration Portal. You can also reach out to local police or the Cyber Police for help. If any financial information is compromised, immediately contact your bank to block your ATM or debit card.
Rohit Kamble, a cybersecurity expert from Chikhli, advises citizens to stay vigilant and avoid clicking on suspicious links. Police Inspector Ravikiran Nale, from the Cyber Police in Thane and Pimpri-Chinchwad, urges vehicle owners to report cyber fraud quickly to minimize damage.