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The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has alerted citizens about a fraudulent WhatsApp message falsely claiming that the central government is offering an Rs 8,000 Diwali cash benefit to all Indian citizens.
According to the bureau, the message is being circulated in the name of the Prime Minister and contains a suspicious website link, urging recipients to click on it to claim the supposed benefit.
TGCSB Director Shikha Goel cautioned people against clicking on or forwarding such unverified messages, stating that fraudsters are exploiting the festive season to mislead users.
The bureau warned that these links could redirect users to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and banking information, enable unauthorised UPI transactions or expose devices to malicious software.
Citizens have been advised to verify government benefit announcements only through official websites and authorised communications. The bureau also urged people not to share sensitive information such as OTPs, UPI PINs, passwords or bank account details on unverified platforms.
The advisory further cautioned against paying any fee to claim benefits advertised through unsolicited messages.
Urging people to remain alert during the festive season, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau reiterated its safety message: "Pause, Think, Verify" before clicking links, sharing personal information or making digital payments.
According to the bureau, the message is being circulated in the name of the Prime Minister and contains a suspicious website link, urging recipients to click on it to claim the supposed benefit.
TGCSB Director Shikha Goel cautioned people against clicking on or forwarding such unverified messages, stating that fraudsters are exploiting the festive season to mislead users.
The bureau warned that these links could redirect users to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and banking information, enable unauthorised UPI transactions or expose devices to malicious software.
Citizens have been advised to verify government benefit announcements only through official websites and authorised communications. The bureau also urged people not to share sensitive information such as OTPs, UPI PINs, passwords or bank account details on unverified platforms.
The advisory further cautioned against paying any fee to claim benefits advertised through unsolicited messages.
Urging people to remain alert during the festive season, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau reiterated its safety message: "Pause, Think, Verify" before clicking links, sharing personal information or making digital payments.
