Sat, 7 Nov, 2026, 11:18 pm
Reported by the420.in
Delhi Police have issued a fresh cybersecurity advisory ahead of Diwali, warning citizens about fraudulent gift messages, fake shopping websites and malicious mobile applications being circulated during the festive season.
The advisory, issued by the Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit on Saturday, 7 November, highlights how cybercriminals are exploiting increased online shopping, digital payments and festive celebrations to target unsuspecting users.
Police have identified several methods used by fraudsters, including fake government reward schemes, shopping portals offering unusually high discounts and digital greeting cards containing potentially harmful files.
The advisory comes as consumers increasingly rely on online platforms for festive purchases, gift deliveries and financial transactions. Authorities have urged people to verify unfamiliar offers before sharing information or making payments.
One of the warnings concerns WhatsApp messages falsely claiming that the Prime Minister or Central Government is offering ₹8,000 to citizens as a Diwali gift.