In election season, cyber fraudsters use PM Modi’s name to cheat people with scratch cards

BENGALURU: With the election heat on, cyber fraudsters are on the prowl sending out fake messages luring gullible people with the promise of Rs 5,000 in their bank accounts in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following this, some activists have appealed to election officials and the cyber crime police to act against the fraudsters.

The cyber fraudsters are using pictures of PM Modi and sending out fake messages on social media promising Rs 5,000 in the accounts of people. The message says the recepient is eligible for Rs 5,000 and to click on a link. The fraudsters then clean out the victim’s bank account.

Tayinadu Raghavendra of the KaRaVe Gaja Sene Seva Trust.

The KaRaVe Gaja Sene Seva Trust has lodged a complaint with the election officials and the cyber crime police and sought action against the fraudsters. “We have lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission as some fraudsters are using Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s picture to dupe people by sending a link on social media. These fraudsters are stealing money from poor and innocent people in the name of Bharat Jan Dhan Yojana. There should be a detailed investigation into this”, said Tayinadu Raghavendra of KRV Gaja Sene.

Cyber security expert Dr Shubha Mangala Sunil has warned people against clicking any such links.

Cyber experts have also warned people against falling for such traps. “These links are going to WhatsApp, Instagram and other social media accounts of people asking them to click on the link and open a scratch card. Once you scratch the card, it shows that Rs 4,950 will be deposited in the account and redirects you to Paytm. The fraudsters then steal money from your bank accounts. This is a fake message as no such scheme has been announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government or the BJP”, warned cyber security expert Dr Shubha Mangala Sunil.