Hyderabad: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has issued an alert about a fake WhatsApp message that uses the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The message claims the Centre is offering a ₹8,000 cash benefit to Indian citizens for Diwali. The bureau has cautioned people against believing the offer.
The fraudulent message carries a suspicious website link and urges recipients to click on it to claim the alleged benefit. According to the TGCSB, fraudsters are using the festive season to make the offer look genuine and to push people into acting without verifying the claim.
The bureau said such links can redirect users to fraudulent websites that collect personal information and banking credentials. They may also enable unauthorised UPI transactions or expose devices to malicious software. The TGCSB has advised citizens not to believe or forward unsolicited messages promising cash benefits in the name of the government.
The bureau has warned people not to share OTPs, UPI PINs, passwords, bank account details or other sensitive information on unverified websites. Citizens should also avoid paying any registration fee or giving banking details to claim benefits advertised through unsolicited messages. It has urged people to check the authenticity of government schemes on official websites and through verified announcements.
People who have clicked on the link should not enter any further information and should take steps to secure their accounts and devices. If an unauthorised financial transaction has taken place, victims should contact their bank immediately. They should also report the incident to the Cybercrime helpline 1930 or on the online complaint portal at https://www.cybercrime.gov.in/. The TGCSB stressed that prompt reporting helps start the appropriate response.
The bureau has asked citizens to stay alert to online scams during the festive season and not to forward unverified messages that could put others at risk. Reiterating its cyber safety message, the TGCSB urged people to “Pause, Think, Verify” before clicking on links, sharing personal information or making digital payments. The alert was issued by Shikha Goel, Director of the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau.
