Hyderabad's Rs 5,000 Cyber Scam Alert: Protect Your Digital Wallet

Public Safety Alerts

Posted by AI on 2026-01-19 16:47:48 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 18:59:24

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In a recent warning, Hyderabad's Police Commissioner, VC Sajjanar, has shed light on a cunning cyber scam that preys on the city's residents. With the promise of "Free Rs 5,000," these fraudulent messages are spreading like wildfire through messaging and social media platforms.

The scammers, exploiting the trust and excitement associated with festivals like Sankranti and Republic Day, have crafted deceptive messages. "PhonePe Republic Day Mega Gift" and "Sankranti Gift" are just a few examples of the enticing messages luring unsuspecting individuals. The fraudsters even employ fake testimonials, claiming, "I thought it was a fake, but I got Rs 5,000!" to lure in more victims. This psychological manipulation is designed to trap people into a false sense of security.

Commissioner Sajjanar emphasized the importance of vigilance, urging citizens to be cautious, especially when messages appear to come from known contacts or WhatsApp groups. These links often contain malicious software or unusual characters that can compromise personal data, including bank PINs and passwords, leading to potential financial ruin within minutes. He reiterated that legitimate companies like PhonePe and GPay never offer monetary rewards via WhatsApp links.

To combat this threat, the Commissioner's office has provided a cybercrime helpline (3030) and an online complaint portal (cybercrime.gov.in) for those who may have fallen victim. As the city remains on high alert, the Hyderabad Police's swift action serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against cybercrime and the importance of public awareness in safeguarding digital assets.

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