Valentine’s Day: Beware of Fake Links and Online Scams

Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Telangana Police have cautioned the public to remain vigilant against cyber fraud. Cybercriminals are reportedly targeting unsuspecting individuals through fake dating profiles, gift offers, flower delivery scams and Valentine’s discount links. Telangana Cyber Security Bureau Director Shikha Goel warned that such scams can lead not only to financial losses but also to the theft of personal data and misuse of social media and bank accounts. Fraudsters typically create fake social media or dating profiles to gain victims’ trust and then request money. They may also send links under the pretext of gift deliveries or emergencies. These links often redirect users to fake payment websites or prompt the download of malicious applications, enabling criminals to steal OTPs, banking details and other sensitive financial information.

Officials advise that if you click on a suspicious link or suspect fraudulent activity, you should immediately halt any financial transactions. Never share OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers or verification codes with anyone. It is important to save screenshots of chats, links, and transaction details as evidence. If the matter involves financial transactions, promptly inform your bank or the respective payment application. Additionally, users should immediately change passwords for their banking, email and social media accounts to prevent further misuse.

To prevent cyber fraud, citizens are urged to remain alert at all times. Avoid accepting friend requests from unknown profiles and do not send money to individuals met online. Refrain from clicking on Valentine’s gift or discount links and never install applications received through suspicious links. Use Two-Factor Authentication wherever possible and make payments only through official websites and app stores. In case of fraud, individuals are advised to immediately report the incident by calling the 1930 cybercrime helpline.