5 days ago
6
With the onset of Ramzan, Hyderabad Police have issued a public advisory cautioning citizens about a rise in online frauds, including fake donation links, shopping scams and digital payment fraud. Officials stated that cyber criminals often exploit the festive season to target people through deceptive messages and fraudulent online platforms.
According to the advisory, fraudsters circulate fake Zakat and charity links through WhatsApp messages, social media pages and QR codes, claiming to collect funds for orphanages, mosque construction, medical emergencies, disaster relief and Ramzan food distribution. Citizens have been advised to donate only to verified organisations after checking official websites and contact details, and avoid scanning unknown QR codes or clicking on unverified links and application files.
Police also warned of fake e-commerce websites offering heavy discounts on Eid clothing, dates, dry fruits, electronics and Iftar food packages. The public has been urged to purchase only from trusted platforms, verify reviews before placing orders and avoid making advance payments to unknown sellers.
Hyderabad Police reiterated that bank officials never ask for one time passwords, PIN numbers, CVV details or passwords. Citizens have been asked not to share OTPs with anyone or click on suspicious links received through SMS or messaging applications. Any caller claiming to represent a bank, police or government department should be verified before responding.
The advisory further highlighted the risk of social media scams, including fake profiles seeking emergency funds, bogus job offers during Ramzan and fraudulent investment schemes. People have been advised to verify identities before transferring money, enable two factor authentication and use strong passwords.
In case of cyber fraud, victims have been asked to immediately call the national cyber crime helpline 1930 or report the incident on the official portal at https://cybercrime.gov.in.
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