Summary of this article
Viral WhatsApp message falsely claims India Post Chhath Puja subsidy.
PIB confirms no such scheme; warns against fraudulent links.
Citizens advised to avoid sharing personal details, stay alert.
Scammers usually take advantage of the festive season, as people are more likely to fall for fake offers or subsidy messages. As the Chhath Puja celebrations continue, a message has been circulating on WhatsApp which claims that India Post is offering a Rs 20,000 subsidy under the name India Post Chhath Puja Subsidy. The message, which has been widely shared on social media, includes a link that claims to provide access to the alleged benefit.
PIB Clarifies No Such Subsidy
While the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check team clarified that this message is fake, PIB post on X (formerly twitter), stating, "Beware of online fraud being carried out in the name of 'India Post Chhath Puja Subsidy'." PIB confirmed that India Post has no connection with any such subsidy or lucky draw.
As per report, the viral message contains a suspicious link leading to a fraudulent website that falsely promises a Rs 20,000 Chhath Puja subsidy. The post tries to lure users into providing personal and financial details. The fake message claims users can win Rs 20,000 under the scheme by answering a short questionnaire.
What You Should Do
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has urged citizens to exercise caution amid the circulation of fraudulent messages online. People are advised not to click on unknown links or give sensitive information such as bank accounts, OTPs, or Aadhaar numbers. PIB also asked users to stay vigilant and alert others to prevent the spread of such online scams.
To verify, users can send any questionable message, link, photo or video about the central government to PIB Fact Check via WhatsApp at +91 8799711259 or email at factcheck@pib.gov.in. PIB will confirm the information and offer accurate details.
Such messages tend to circulate widely during festive seasons which aims to attract public attention with false promises. People are urged to remain cautious and verify any information before responding to similar claims.
