Bihar: The Police has issued a high alert over a fresh cyber fraud pattern in Bihar. The scammers are allegedly posing as census officials and contacting residents through phone calls, SMS and WhatsApp messages to steal money and banking information.
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The fraudsters are claiming to assist people with self-enumeration or government benefits under the ongoing census process. Victims are being sent suspicious links under the pretext of completing census formalities. Officials have warned that clicking such links can compromise mobile devices and expose banking details.
Fraudsters Use Census Cover to Target Residents
The Police said the fraud attempts have been reported from Patna, Muzaffarpur and other districts. In one case, a Patna resident reportedly lost ₹25,000, while another victim in Muzaffarpur reported losing ₹10,000 after clicking a malicious link.
Cybercriminals are increasingly focusing on rural areas, where awareness of digital fraud remains relatively low. Scammers are also said to be threatening victims by claiming their government benefits will be stopped unless they complete “self-enumeration” immediately
Government Clarifies Data Collection Process
Officials associated with the census process have clarified that no government agency seeks personal or banking details through calls or messages. Citizens have been advised to use only the official census self-enumeration portal for submitting information.
People have been advised not to click on unknown links or share sensitive information, including OTPs and banking credentials. The warning comes amid multiple complaints now under investigation.
Helpline Advisory Issued as Probe Continues
The cyber unit has asked residents to report suspected fraud immediately through the national cyber helpline 1930 or the official cybercrime reporting portal.
Police said efforts are being made to track those involved in the fraud attempts. Authorities have reiterated that vigilance and awareness remain the most effective safeguards against such scams.
