Diwali is a time when people look forward to attractive shopping discounts, cashback offers and festive gifts. However, cybercriminals are using this excitement to target unsuspecting users through fraudulent WhatsApp messages. Promises of free gifts, huge discounts and special Diwali bonuses may look tempting, but clicking on the links included in these messages could put your personal information and hard-earned money at risk.
These messages often appear convincing and may even use the names and logos of popular shopping brands or government schemes. Before clicking on any festive offer, it is important to understand how these scams work and how you can protect yourself.
How do cybercriminals trap people through WhatsApp messages?
This type of online fraud is commonly known as phishing. Scammers send messages claiming that users can receive free gifts, exclusive discounts, cashback or special festive rewards by clicking on a link.
The link may redirect users to a fake website designed to look like the official website of a shopping platform, company or government department.
Once users open the website, they may be asked to provide personal details such as:
-
Full name and mobile number.
-
Bank account details.
-
Debit or credit card information.
-
UPI details and other sensitive information.
-
OTPs received on their registered mobile numbers.
In some cases, users may also be encouraged to download unknown applications that could compromise their device security.
Fake Diwali bonus messages are also circulating
Fraudsters sometimes use the name of the government to make their messages appear more trustworthy. A similar fraudulent WhatsApp message reportedly claimed that the government was offering an ₹8,000 Diwali bonus.
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) clarified that the claim was false and that no such government bonus had been announced.
Such messages are designed to create excitement and encourage people to click on suspicious links without checking whether the information is genuine.
5 ways to protect yourself from Diwali WhatsApp scams
You can avoid falling victim to these scams by following a few basic precautions.
-
Never click on unknown links: Avoid opening links received from unfamiliar numbers, especially when they promise free gifts, cashback or unusually large discounts.
-
Verify offers through official platforms: If a message claims to offer a discount from a particular company, check its official website or application before taking any action.
-
Never share your OTP or UPI PIN: Banks and payment service providers do not require you to share your OTP or UPI PIN with anyone. You also do not need to enter your UPI PIN to receive money.
-
Avoid downloading unknown applications: Never install APK files or applications received through WhatsApp messages or unverified websites.
-
Do not forward unverified messages: A fraudulent message can spread quickly through family and friends' WhatsApp groups. Verify an offer before sharing it with others.
What should you do if you become a victim of online fraud?
If you accidentally click on a fraudulent link or notice an unauthorised transaction in your bank account, act immediately. Contact your bank through its official customer care channel and report the suspicious transaction.
You should also report financial cyber fraud by calling India's National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930. Alternatively, you can register a complaint through the official National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in.
Keep transaction details, screenshots and other relevant evidence available when filing your complaint.
Stay alert while shopping online this Diwali
Festive offers can help you save money, but an unbelievable discount or free gift should never come at the cost of your financial security. Cybercriminals often rely on urgency, excitement and attractive rewards to make people lower their guard.
Before clicking on a WhatsApp link, take a moment to verify the source. A little caution can protect your personal information, bank account and hard-earned savings this Diwali.
