Fake traffic challan scam: Jana Sena MLA Chirri Balaraju loses Rs 12 lakh after clicking on message

Eluru: Cybercriminals duped Jana Sena Party MLA Chirrri Balaraju (Polavaram constituency) and siphoned off around Rs 12 lakh from his bank account after he clicked on a fake RTA challan link sent to his mobile phone.

Fraudulent link installs malware

According to police, the MLA received a message claiming to be from the Road Transport Authority (RTA), asking him to clear a pending challan.

Believing it to be genuine, he clicked on the link.

Investigators suspect that the link led to the installation of a malware application on his phone, enabling fraudsters to gain access to sensitive banking information.

Money withdrawn without authorisation

Soon after clicking the link, around Rs 12 lakh was withdrawn from his IndusInd Bank account in Jangareddygudem without his authorisation. The transactions reportedly took place within a short span, leaving little time for intervention.

Complaint lodged, probe on

Shocked by the sudden debit alerts, Balaraju realised that his phone had been compromised and immediately approached the Jeelugumilli police. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway.

Police tracing digital footprints

Police officials said they are tracking the accused using technical evidence such as IP address tracing and digital footprints. Efforts are on to identify and apprehend those behind the fraud.

Public warned against fraudulent RTA links

Authorities have cautioned the public against clicking on suspicious links or messages, especially those related to fines or payments.

Citizens are advised to verify such messages through official sources before taking any action, as cyber fraud cases continue to rise.