Ahead of the Holi festival, the Future Crime Research Foundation has advised citizens to remain alert as there is a potential rise in digital fraud cases. The organisation stated that cybercriminals often target festive seasons by circulating fake offers and attractive online schemes to trap unsuspecting users. Online shopping, party bookings, travel plans and promotional messages on social media are commonly used as tools for fraud during this period.
Fake Holi Offers Proliferate
Experts from the Future Crime Research Foundation said that fake discount offers, gift packages, party passes, food delivery deals and cashback links are being widely circulated around Holi. These links are usually shared through WhatsApp, SMS, email and various social media platforms. In many cases, fraudsters create fake e-commerce websites or fraudulent payment portals to steal banking credentials and personal data.
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Phishing Links and Malicious Apps
The organisation urged people to avoid clicking on unknown links during the festive season. Payments should not be made if the authenticity of any website or application is uncertain. Sensitive information such as OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers or passwords should never be shared with any individual or platform.
According to experts, cybercriminals often send messages offering community event passes, colour shopping discounts or party entry offers related to Holi. These messages contain links that redirect users to phishing websites or encourage them to download malicious applications. Once installed, such applications can steal OTPs, bank card details, contact lists and social media account information from mobile devices.
Trust Exploitation Tactics
Fraudsters generally use festival greetings or limited-time offers to gain the victim’s trust. After the user clicks the link, they are taken to a fake payment page where sensitive financial information is requested. In some cases, hacked accounts are also used to send fraudulent messages to the victim’s contacts, allowing the scam network to spread quickly.
Immediate Action Guidelines
The Future Crime Research Foundation advised that if anyone receives suspicious messages or accidentally clicks a fraudulent link, all financial transactions should be stopped immediately. Screenshots of suspicious messages should be saved and reported to the concerned bank or payment application without delay. OTPs, PINs or passwords must never be shared under any circumstances.
Early Reporting Critical
The organisation further stated that early reporting of cyber fraud can help prevent significant financial losses. Victims are encouraged to use local cybercrime helpline numbers or register complaints through official online reporting portals.
Experts believe that increased online shopping and digital payments during festivals provide cybercriminals with greater opportunities. Therefore, transactions should only be conducted through official websites and verified mobile applications.
The Future Crime Research Foundation emphasised that awareness about digital security remains the most effective protection. Law enforcement and cyber security specialists continue to urge people to stay vigilant, as cyber fraud techniques are evolving rapidly with time.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
