Diwali Bonus Scam: Fake WhatsApp Message Promises ₹8,000 in PM’s Name

A fraudulent WhatsApp message promising an ₹8,000 Diwali bonus in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is circulating widely. The message claims that the Central Government is offering the amount as a festive gift and asks recipients to click on a link and submit their personal details to receive the money directly into their bank accounts. However, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) has clarified that the claim is fake and that the Central Government has not announced any such Diwali bonus.

Cybercriminals use such misleading messages to collect personal and financial information. Clicking on suspicious links may lead users to fraudulent websites that ask for names, phone numbers, bank details, OTPs or UPI PINs. Sharing such information can put bank accounts at risk. People should avoid clicking on unverified links and should never disclose their OTPs, UPI PINs or banking credentials. Government scheme announcements should be verified through official websites. Anyone who falls victim to an online financial fraud should immediately call the cybercrime helpline 1930 or report the incident at cybercrime.gov.in .