As the June 2025 deadline gets closer for putting High-Security Registration Plates, aka HSRP number plates, on vehicles purchased before April 2019, online scams are also rising. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has warned that many fake websites and paid ads are tricking people who are trying to book their HSRP online, because of which people have started asking questions like Is book my HSRP safe or Is book my HSRP legit when in reality it is a safety measure.
Read the article to learn more about the scams surrounding HSRP, ranging from the working of the scams to preventive measures.
Overview
The table below summarises some significant points about the HSRP scams that one should know.
| HSRP | High-Security Registration Plates |
|---|
| Purpose | Extra protective and tamper-proof number plates for all vehicles bought before April 2019 |
| Is book my HSRP safe? | Yes, but only from official government websites. |
| HSRP scams operate through | HSRP booking scam websites India |
| For filing a complaint | Visit the cybercrime.gov.in |
Read More: Government Warns Against Fake Travel Sites And Paid Ad Scams
How The Scam Works?
It often begins by performing a Google search such as ‘HSRP registration’ or ‘book my HSRP’. A wide range of results show up, many of which appear just like government portals. The HSRP booking scam websites India are run by scammers and are often the first results on Google, or are available through ads, Facebook posts, or even WhatsApp messages.
These scammers make an easy profit by tricking users into providing complete details of their vehicles through their designed HSRP booking scam websites India. After payment, confirmation is never sent, and in some cases, mock plates are delivered to the customer.
In certain instances, substandard counterfeit plates that do not comply with government regulations are issued. These plates can pose severe risks for the car owner as well.
Real Cases Coming To Light
In Pune, police have received multiple complaints from people who searched for ‘book my HSRP’ and lost between ₹1,500 to ₹4,000 to such scams. The Maharashtra transport department recently identified at least six fake websites impersonating genuine HSRP contractors.
One shocking case involved a 57-year-old man in Bengaluru who ran a fake HSRP website. He overcharged customers and didn’t deliver HSRP plates, cheating around 40 vehicle owners before being arrested.
People only realise they’ve been scammed when they don’t receive any confirmation or delivery, but by then it’s too late. Because of such instances, many people have started posing questions like Is book my HSRP safe or Is book my HSRP legit when in reality they are extra protective number plates designed for the safety of vehicles.
Why HSRP Registration Is Important?
HSRP number plate aren’t just for show, they're tamper-proof plates fitted with holograms and laser codes. They help prevent vehicle identity theft and cloning, making it harder for criminals to misuse vehicles.
The Supreme Court ordered the nationwide rollout of HSRP to boost road safety and curb vehicle-related crimes.
Read More: SCAM Alert! Scam Network Targets Farmers With Fake Tractor Subsidy Scheme
What To Do If You Get Scammed?
If you realise you’ve fallen into an HSRP scam, don’t panic. Taking quick action can help limit the damage and even help others avoid similar fraud.
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Report Immediately: File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in or call the national cybercrime helpline at 1930.
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Contact Your Bank: Inform your bank to try and block the payment if possible.
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Spread Awareness: Share your experience with friends, family, and on social media to warn others.
Conclusion
The convenience of online bookings is undeniable, but scams are growing just as fast. Before entering your details or making a payment, take a minute to verify the website's authenticity.
Protecting yourself isn’t complicated; it just takes a little extra caution. And remember, when it comes to your vehicle and compliance, it’s always better to trust only official sources.
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