Cybercrime police warn public about lottery, loan and shopping scams
The Tamil Nadu cybercrime wing has issued a fresh warning about several online fraud schemes targeting the public, including fake lottery prizes, instant loan offers, scholarship messages and heavily discounted grocery deals.
Police said scammers often circulate messages claiming that recipients have won large lottery prizes and then demand processing charges, taxes or other payments before releasing the supposed winnings. People have been advised not to transfer money or disclose banking and personal information in response to such messages.
Another growing threat involves fake grocery promotions offering unusually steep discounts. Cybercrime officials have urged consumers to confirm deals through the retailer’s official website or application and avoid clicking on unfamiliar links. OTPs, bank credentials and other sensitive information should never be shared.
Police have also cautioned against fraudulent loan applications that promise quick access to money. Such applications can be used to collect personal information, after which victims may face intimidation or harassment over repayment demands.
Anyone who becomes a victim of cyber fraud, or encounters suspicious online activity, can contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 or file a complaint through cybercrime.gov.in.
The Tamil Nadu cybercrime wing is also using its official social media platforms to circulate awareness material and educate people about common digital fraud methods.