Police Advisory on Fake Links for Women Aid Scheme
The Ludhiana police have issued an urgent advisory warning citizens about fraudulent messages circulating via WhatsApp and other platforms. These messages, claiming to offer financial assistance under the Punjab government's 'Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojana', contain malicious links designed to steal personal banking information. The police have urged people to stay alert and avoid clicking on any such suspicious links.
How the Scam Operates
Cyber criminals are sending random messages stating that government funds have been approved and will be transferred within 24 hours. The messages prompt recipients to click on a link to claim the money. According to the police, clicking the link can compromise financial apps and personal banking details. In an awareness video shared on the official Facebook and Instagram handles of the Commissionerate Police, official Amarinder Singh explains the modus operandi. He describes how the link leads to a fake page resembling a legitimate government website. Users are then asked to fill out a form requesting confidential information such as bank account details, passwords, or OTPs. Once submitted, funds are siphoned from the victim's account. The link may also contain APK files or screen-mirroring software capable of hacking mobile devices.
Official Warning and Precautions
Cyber Cell in-charge Inspector Satbir Singh has given strict instructions to the public. He advises verifying the authenticity of any government scheme by visiting only its official website. Citizens should not share any personal information or OTP related to bank accounts, ATMs, or Aadhaar cards with anyone. The police emphasize that the government never distributes money through suspicious links. If someone becomes a victim of such fraud, they should immediately call the cyber helpline number 1930 and register a complaint.
How to Avail Benefits of the Scheme
To avail benefits under the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojana, eligible women should visit Sewa Kendras or anganwadi centres with their Aadhaar card, Punjab Voter ID card, bank passbook, and a caste certificate if applicable. Women beneficiaries above 18 years of age will receive financial assistance of Rs 1,000 per month, while those from the Scheduled Caste category will receive Rs 1,500 per month. Funds will be transferred directly into beneficiaries' bank accounts. Women already receiving social security pensions are also eligible. The state government has allocated Rs 9,300 crore for the scheme in the Budget.
