Beware of Fake Driving Licence Scams: How Fraudsters Operate and Ways to Stay Safe

In today’s digital world, cyber fraud is becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting unsuspecting individuals through seemingly official services. One of the latest scams making rounds involves fake online driving licenses. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, has recently issued a public warning regarding fraudulent activities linked to vehicle and driving license services.

This scam, like many others, is designed to exploit digital illiteracy and lure citizens with false promises of getting a driving licence quickly and without assessments. Here’s how the fraud works — and how you can stay protected.

🚨 The Modus Operandi: How This Scam Works

Cybercriminals are using various illegal techniques to target individuals looking to apply for a driving licence online. These fraudsters often create fake websites and mobile apps that closely resemble the official government portals like parivahan.gov.in and NextGen mParivahan. Here's how the scam unfolds:

Data Harvesting via Fake Platforms
Scammers operate through dark web channels or bogus ID-printing websites that collect sensitive user data like Aadhaar number, PAN, vehicle information, and photographs.

Creation of Counterfeit Licences
Using the collected data, they generate fake driving licenses, which are then sent to victims via SMS or WhatsApp. These forged licenses often come with QR codes or fake verification marks, making them appear genuine.

Phishing Links and APKs
Victims receive phishing messages pretending to be from the transport department. These messages contain links to download APK files or redirect users to malicious websites. Once these are installed, scammers gain access to banking apps, messages, and OTPs stored on the phone.

Impersonating Authorities
Fraudsters often send fake challan alerts, renewal notices, or driving test confirmations through WhatsApp or SMS. These messages include government logos, URLs, or even seemingly valid reference numbers to fool victims into trusting them.

Mass-scale Deception
As per a Times of India report, a man in Morbi, Maharashtra lost over ₹2.25 lakh in a recent fake driving licence scam. This shows the scale and seriousness of such fraudulent activities.

✅ How to Stay Safe from Fake Driving Licence Scams

To protect yourself from falling victim to such frauds, follow these cybersecurity tips:

• Always use official sources: Visit only parivahan.gov.in or the NextGen mParivahan app for any driving licence or vehicle-related services.

• Don’t trust links on WhatsApp or SMS: Never click on links received through unknown sources or unverified contacts, even if they seem official.

• Download apps only from trusted stores: Install applications only from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Avoid downloading APKs or files from random websites.

• Be careful with personal information: Never share your Aadhaar, PAN, bank details, or OTPs with anyone claiming to offer government services.

• Verify before paying: Always verify payment requests or services with the official government websites before making any transaction.

📞 Where to Report Fraud

If you suspect or have fallen victim to any type of cyber fraud:

• Call the National Cybercrime Helpline at 1930

• Visit www.cybercrime.gov.in to file an online complaint.

Prompt reporting can help authorities take swift action and may also prevent others from becoming victims of similar frauds.

🔚 Final Word

Cyber frauds under the guise of public services like driving licences are not just financially damaging but also compromise your digital identity. In this fast-paced digital era, awareness and vigilance are your strongest weapons against online deception. Always double-check the source, question every unsolicited message, and stick to verified government portals for all documentation needs.

Stay informed. Stay alert. Stay safe.