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Meerut Police have warned residents about Diwali gift scams in which fraudulent links are being used to steal personal and banking information.
How Are Fraudsters Using Diwali Offers?
Cybercriminals are exploiting the attraction of free gifts, discounts and prize offers during Diwali to target unsuspecting internet users in Meerut. Fraudulent messages are being circulated through WhatsApp, SMS and social media, encouraging recipients to click unfamiliar links promising festive rewards.
Police have warned that opening these links may expose users’ personal information and banking details to criminals. Complaints involving such festive scams have reportedly reached the cybercrime police station, prompting authorities to launch a public awareness campaign.
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How Do Fake Gift Links Work?
According to the warning, fraudsters create fake websites and links that display attractive offers using the names of prominent companies. Some messages promise free gifts, while others claim that recipients have won expensive prizes through lucky draws.
Victims may be asked to register, pay delivery charges or provide a one-time password to claim their rewards. Once users share sensitive information, criminals may attempt to access their bank accounts and withdraw money. Such offers are designed to appear genuine and persuade recipients to disclose confidential details.
What Precautions Have Police Recommended?
Meerut Police have advised people against opening suspicious links received through messaging applications or social media. Officers have warned that fraudsters may attempt to obtain OTPs, ATM PINs, CVV numbers and other banking information by presenting fraudulent offers as legitimate promotions.
Residents have been advised to verify promotional offers directly through the official websites of the companies concerned. Police have also cautioned against trusting claims of prizes or free gifts without checking their authenticity, particularly when the messages request personal or financial information.
Where Can Victims Report Cyber Fraud?
Police have urged residents to remain cautious while responding to online offers during the festive period. Anyone who suspects that they have fallen victim to financial cyber fraud has been advised to contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 without delay.
Complaints can also be registered through the government’s National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in. Authorities have emphasised that public awareness and careful verification of online offers are essential to preventing financial losses from fraudulent festive promotions.
