EPFO Cautions Members Against Online Fraud, Urges Them To Stay Alert

As more government and financial services move online, users are increasingly relying on digital platforms to access accounts, check information, and complete transactions. This has also created opportunities for fraudsters to use fake websites, links and messages to obtain sensitive information.

What EPFO Said

Amid these concerns, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), which administers Provident Fund, pension and insurance-related social security schemes for eligible employees, has cautioned its members against online fraud and phishing attempts, urging them to exercise caution while accessing EPFO-related services online.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), EPFO said, “Think Before You Click! EPFO urges all members to stay vigilant online. Avoid fake links, verify URLs and protect your personal information at all times.”

How Members Can Stay Safe Online

In its advisory, EPFO asked members to access its services only through its official websites and avoid clicking on unverified links received through SMS, email or social media. The organisation also urged members to carefully verify website URLs before logging in, particularly by checking for spelling variations or unusual domains.

Members have also been advised not to share sensitive personal or financial information on websites other than EPFO’s official portals. This includes the Universal Account Number (UAN), Pension Payment Order (PPO), password, Aadhaar, Permanent Account Number (PAN), bank details, and one-time passwords (OTPs).

EPFO has listed its official websites for members accessing its online services, including its main website and the unified member interface. Members have also been advised to use these official platforms rather than rely on links shared through unsolicited messages, emails or social media posts.

EPFO has further clarified that it does not ask members for personal details, OTPs or login credentials through phone calls, WhatsApp, SMS, social media or email. Members should, therefore, exercise caution if they receive messages or calls claiming to be from EPFO and asking for such information.

EPFO has further advised members to report suspicious websites, messages or suspected phishing attempts from its official helpdesk or relevant cybersecurity reporting channels.

The advisory asked members to remain cautious while using online services and to be aware of communications that appear to be from official sources. EPFO’s warning also underscores the importance of protecting personal information as more employment and social-security services become accessible online.