Cyber Cops Warn Of Ramzan Donation, Shopping Scams
Hyderabad: As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the city cybercrime police have warned citizens against online fraudsters who have become more active during the festive season, targeting people through fake donation links, online shopping scams, fake messages and digital payment frauds.
V. Arvind Babu, DCP (Cyber Crime), said fraudsters are creating fake websites, WhatsApp messages, Instagram pages and QR codes claiming to collect money for orphans, building mosques, medical emergencies, Gaza or disaster relief and Ramzan food distribution. He asked citizens to donate only to verified organizations and check their official websites and contact details before sending money.
Police also warned about fake e-commerce platforms offering huge discounts on clothes, Eid collections, dates, dry fruits, electronic products and iftar packages. Citizens have been advised to shop only from trusted websites, check reviews, avoid making advance payments to unknown sellers and never share OTPs, PINs, CVVs or passwords. Arvind Babu emphasized that banks, police and government officials never ask for such details.
He also warned against suspicious links received via SMS or WhatsApp, fake profiles asking for urgent money and fraudulent job offers during Ramzan. Citizens are advised to verify their identity before sending money, enable two-factor authentication and use strong passwords.
