Beware of Festive Cyber Traps: Cyber Crime Police Issue Christmas–New Year Alert

Hyderabad:
In a statement issued by V. Aravind Babu, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Cyber Crimes, Hyderabad City, the Cyber Crime Police have cautioned citizens to remain extra vigilant during the Christmas and New Year season, as cyber fraudsters intensify their activities by exploiting festive offers and the surge in online transactions.

The statement noted that the festive period often witnesses a rise in cyber scams, including circulation of unknown links and fake APKs through WhatsApp, SMS and emails; lottery, gift, cashback and lucky draw frauds; fake New Year party and event passes; fraudulent travel, hotel and resort bookings; fake cab and rental services; bogus charity and donation appeals; deceptive job and part-time work offers; and fake refund, bonus and discount messages.

Advising the public on safety measures, Mr. Aravind Babu urged citizens not to click on suspicious links or download unknown applications or APK files. He cautioned people against sharing sensitive information such as OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers or bank details with anyone. The statement further advised citizens to verify all bookings, event passes and promotional offers only through official platforms, avoid scanning unknown QR codes or responding to unsolicited UPI requests, and to enable two-factor authentication while keeping apps and devices updated.

In case of falling victim to cyber fraud, the public has been asked to report the incident immediately at www.cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the national cyber crime helpline 1930, and to preserve screenshots, transaction details and contact numbers for investigation purposes.

The Deputy Commissioner also appealed to citizens to stay informed by following official updates from the Cyber Crime Police, Hyderabad.