Digital Life Certificate Submission: DoPPW Issues Cybersecurity Guidelines To Protect Pensioners From Fraud

November is crucial for pensioners, as they must submit their life certificate to ensure continued pension payments. This annual exercise is mandatory, and failure to comply with it stops their pension from the next month. In recent years, the government has emphasised submitting the life certificate digitally from the comfort of home. Though the facility of digital submission is available, seniors need to learn about digital security and stay protected from fraud. Recently, the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) issued an advisory in this regard.

DoPPW’s office memorandum (OM) dated October 31, 2025, notes that the process of submitting a life certificate has become easier, faster, and accessible through digital technology, but also cautions that ‘it becomes imperative for all pensioners to be aware of basic cyber security measures to prevent fraud, identity theft, or unauthorised access to sensitive personal and financial information’.

In the OM, it outlines five precautions that pensioners need to take when using digital modes for pension-related services.

Use Authorised Digital Platforms

Pensioners must use the official websites and apps to submit a digital life certificate. These include the Jeevan Pramaan Portal, Aadhaar Face RD App, and the Post Office app. The OM specifically advises against sharing details with unauthorised agents to avoid fraud, identity theft, or unauthorised access to one’s personal and financial information.

Do Not Share Sensitive Personal Information

DoPPW advises pensioners not to share their sensitive personal information, such as the Aadhaar number, one-time passwords (OTPs), bank account details, pension payment order (PPO) number, or mobile number with unknown individuals.

Be Vigilant Of Fraud Calls Or Emails

The advisory stresses that no government agency even asks for one’s password, OTP, or bank PIN via phone or email. So, if anyone asks for such details, always verify such email or messages that claims to be from government sources.

Use Secure Internet And Keep Your Device Updated

To ensure a secure digital transaction, pensioners should keep their mobile phones and computers updated with the latest security patches and antivirus software. Further, one should submit the life certificate using secure Wi-Fi or mobile networks.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you suspect any fraudulent activity or data misuse, please report the incident immediately to your bank or the official cybercrime portal online.  

The advisory is aimed at spreading awareness about digital security measures and how senior citizens can take proactive measures to safeguard themselves against potential fraud.

DoPPW’s digital life certificate campaign 4.0 will run until November 30, 2025. A pensioner can easily submit the life certificate online by following this process.