Hyderabad: The Paytm Diwali gift scam has spread through social media, particularly WhatsApp, with fake messages promising users a Rs 1,000 festive reward. Cyber experts warned that clicking these links could expose personal information and bank accounts to fraudsters.
To make the offer appear genuine, scammers circulated fabricated screenshots and messages. Some posts carried claims such as, “I first thought it was fake, but I actually received Rs 1,000. You should try it too.” Through these claims, fraudsters sought to persuade recipients to open the links.
Once users clicked, the scammers attempted to steal personal information and banking details. They appeared to be exploiting the excitement surrounding festival offers to draw people into the trap.
Paytm Diwali gift scam prompts Hyderabad Police warning
Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar warned people against falling for these fake promotional messages. He said cybercriminals were taking advantage of the festive season and the public’s interest in special offers.
Accordingly, Sajjanar advised people not to open suspicious links received through social media. He also cautioned users against sharing bank account details, ATM PINs, one-time passwords or other personal information.
In addition, he urged people not to forward unverified messages to others. Police said users should check promotional claims only through Paytm’s official website or its authorised communication channels.
Police also cautioned that attractive festival offers circulating online might not be genuine. A moment of carelessness could put a person’s savings at risk.
Anyone who falls victim to such fraud should act immediately. They can call the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 or lodge a complaint through www.cybercrime.gov.in.