Fake RTO e-Challan WhatsApp Scam Resurfaces: Fraudsters Push Spyware Through Malicious APK Files

 

Cybercriminals have once again revived an old trick—but with a more convincing disguise. This time, scammers are exploiting the name of the official RTO e-challan system to deceive smartphone users. Over the past year, malicious APK files have been circulated in the form of fake wedding invitations, PM-Kisan alerts, courier updates, and KYC notices. Now, the same method is being used to send fraudulent “RTO Challan” messages on WhatsApp, luring victims into installing powerful spyware.

The fraud begins with a seemingly urgent WhatsApp alert claiming that a traffic challan has been issued against the recipient’s vehicle. The message includes a link or an attachment labelled as an e-challan file. Many users, acting out of fear or confusion, click the file—unknowingly giving criminals full access to their device.

Victims typically receive a message saying: “An e-challan has been issued for your vehicle. Download the file below to view details.”

The attachment is an APK file with names like RTO_Challan.apk or E-Challan_Details.apk. Once downloaded, the file installs automatically on Android phones and begins functioning as spyware.

After installation, the malware: