Maharashtra’s state cyber police have warned citizens about phishing emails falsely offering paid internships with the Indian Army, after a message surfaced claiming that the recipient had been selected for a free internship carrying a monthly stipend of ₹75,000.
The fraudulent email presented the offer as a special opportunity and urged the recipient to use an “apply” link. Cyber police warned that clicking links in such emails could expose confidential information, which could subsequently be exploited to siphon money from bank accounts.
Fake Email Promises ₹75,000 Monthly Stipend
The message claimed that the Indian Army was hiring interns and told the recipient that the opportunity had been specially selected for them. It promised a stipend of ₹75,000 per month and stated that no prior experience was required.
The message was verified with Indian Army and defence officials in New Delhi and Mumbai and was found to be a phishing email.
Officials clarified that applications for the genuine Indian Army Internship Programme are accepted only through the AICTE National Internship Portal. The warning comes amid concerns that fraudulent emails, websites and malicious links continue to be used to obtain sensitive information from unsuspecting recipients.
State cyber police said people who click the “apply” link contained in such messages risk having confidential information stolen. Such information could then potentially be misused to siphon funds from their bank accounts.
Genuine Army Internship Is Merit-Based and Free
Defence officials said the Indian Army Internship Programme 2026-27 is a 75-day paid internship initiative that allows students and young professionals to work on defence technology and strategic projects under the mentorship of military experts.
Selected candidates can receive a stipend of up to ₹75,000. However, the amount is disbursed after successful completion of the internship and is subject to maintaining at least 75% attendance.
Officials stressed that the programme is intended strictly for training and skill development and does not guarantee permanent employment or placement in the Indian Army.
A defence official said the official internship is merit-based and free of cost. Officials in Mumbai and New Delhi said they had not received any complaint so far and learnt about the scam email after it was brought to their attention.
Maharashtra Cyber Police Warn Against Phishing Links
State cyber cell Additional Director General of Police Yashasvi Yadav said phishing remains one of the oldest methods used by cybercriminals to deceive people through fake websites, emails and malicious links.
To counter such cyber frauds, the cyber cell is preparing to launch the Maharashtra Cyber Safe App. The application is under development and is expected to be launched within a month.
According to Yadav, the app will address six types of phishing attacks, including QR code fraud, APK file fraud, email phishing and website phishing.
The warning underscores the need for applicants to verify internship offers through official channels rather than responding to unsolicited messages promising opportunities or financial benefits.
