Fake Diwali WhatsApp message offers Rs 8,000; TGCSB issues warning

Hyderabad: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has cautioned people against a fake WhatsApp message promising Rs 8,000 cash benefit in the name of Diwali, warning that cybercriminals could use the festive offer to cheat unsuspecting recipients.

In an advisory, TGCSB Director Shikha Goel said the message was designed to mislead people by exploiting the festive season and creating the impression of an official government scheme. The message, circulated in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urges recipients to click on a link to claim the purported benefit.

Officials warned that clicking on the link could redirect users to fraudulent websites seeking sensitive information such as Aadhaar details, bank account numbers and other personal credentials. “The links could also facilitate unauthorised UPI transactions or expose mobile phones to malicious software,” they said.

The bureau further advised people not to believe, click on or forward such messages. Citizens should verify government welfare schemes and financial assistance announcements only through official government websites and authorised channels.

Citizens were also cautioned against sharing one-time passwords (OTPs), UPI PINs, banking passwords or account details on unverified websites. No fee should be paid to claim benefits advertised through unsolicited messages.

Officials said those who have clicked on suspicious links should refrain from entering any further information and take immediate steps to secure their bank accounts and devices.

Those who have lost money in such frauds should immediately contact their banks and report the incident through the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or the portal www.cybercrime.gov.in.

The TGCSB requested citizens to follow the principle of “Pause, Think, Verify” before clicking links, sharing personal information or making digital payments.