Telangana Cyber Security Bureau warns against fake Diwali offer

Hyderabad: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau has warned people against a fake WhatsApp message claiming that the Central government is offering Rs. 8,000 to every citizen as a Diwali cash benefit, cautioning that clicking on the link provided in the message could lead to financial fraud and data theft.

The fraudulent message claims that people can claim the amount by clicking on a link. However, the link may be used to steal personal information, trick users into making UPI payments or install malware on their devices, the Bureau said in a cyber fraud alert.

The Bureau advised people not to click on unknown links or forward the message to family members and WhatsApp groups. It also cautioned them against sharing one-time passwords (OTPs), UPI PINs, debit or credit card details and bank account information with unknown persons.

People should not pay any fee to receive the purported benefit, it said, urging them to delete such messages and block and report the senders.

The Bureau advised citizens to verify government welfare schemes only through official websites, including the Press Information Bureau’s website, pib.gov.in, and not to believe unverified claims circulated on social media or messaging platforms.

It also urged people to alert elderly family members, neighbours and others about the fraudulent message to prevent them from falling victim to the scam.

Anyone who loses money in such cyber fraud should immediately call the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or lodge a complaint through cybercrime.gov.in, the Bureau said.

“Don’t click, don’t forward. Pause, think and verify,” the Bureau advised citizens.

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