The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau has alerted citizens about a fake WhatsApp message falsely claiming that the Central government is distributing ₹8,000 as a Diwali cash benefit to every citizen. According to the Bureau, the message is a cyber fraud designed to lure people into clicking a malicious link, which can compromise personal and financial information. Officials have urged the public not to trust such viral messages and to verify any government welfare scheme only through official sources before taking any action.

Cyber security officials warned that clicking on the fraudulent link could expose users to serious risks, including theft of personal data, unauthorised UPI transactions and installation of malware on mobile devices. Citizens have been advised not to share OTPs, UPI PINs, debit or credit card details, bank account information or any confidential financial credentials with unknown individuals. The Bureau also cautioned people against forwarding the fake message to family members, friends or WhatsApp groups, as doing so helps scammers target more victims.

The Cyber Security Bureau urged the public to immediately delete such messages, block and report the sender and avoid paying any fee to claim fake government benefits. Authorities recommended verifying all welfare schemes only through official government platforms and advised people to spread awareness among elderly family members and others who may be more vulnerable to online scams. Anyone who becomes a victim of cyber fraud should immediately contact the National Cybercrime Helpline 1930 or file a complaint through the official cybercrime portal to help authorities take swift action.