Early Times Report
Jammu, May 25: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Monday issued a fresh cyber security advisory, cautioning the public against fake online discount offers, misleading advertisements, and fraudulent shopping deals being circulated on social media platforms by cybercriminals.
According to the advisory, fraudsters are increasingly using deceptive marketing tactics, including “limited-time offers,” massive discounts, and attractive promotional advertisements, to lure unsuspecting users into online scams. These schemes are designed to create a sense of urgency and pressure individuals into clicking suspicious links or making payments without proper verification.
Police said such scams often involve fake websites, cloned e-commerce portals, and malicious payment gateways aimed at stealing banking credentials, personal information, and money from victims.
The advisory urged citizens to exercise caution while shopping online and to verify the authenticity of offers before making any payment. People have been advised not to click on unverified links received through SMS, WhatsApp messages, social media posts, or online advertisements.
“Users should be wary of offers that appear too good to be true, as these are often used by cybercriminals to trap potential victims,” the advisory stated.
J&K Police emphasized that fake discount schemes have become one of the most common tactics employed by cyber fraudsters to deceive internet users and steal sensitive information. The advisory stressed the need for constant vigilance while conducting online purchases and financial transactions.
Citizens have been advised to use only trusted and verified platforms for online shopping and digital payments and to avoid sharing personal or banking details on suspicious websites.
The police also appealed to the public to promptly report any suspected cyber fraud, suspicious transactions, or online scams. Victims or those who encounter fraudulent activities can seek assistance by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 or by reporting incidents through the official National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
J&K Police reiterated that timely reporting can significantly improve the chances of preventing financial losses and help law enforcement agencies take swift action against cybercriminals. |