A viral SMS that falsely claims to be from India Post has been debunked by Channeliam Fact Check. The fraudulent message urges users to update their PAN card details to avoid having their India Post Payments Bank accounts blocked. Channeliam Fact Check has confirmed that the message is entirely fake and warns users to stay vigilant.
The False Claim
The SMS in question misleadingly informs users that their India Post Payments Bank accounts will be blocked within 24 hours unless they update their PAN card details. It also includes a suspicious link for users to click and “update” their information. Channeliam Fact Check has verified that this message is a scam, designed to trick people into sharing their personal information.
How to Stay Safe from SMS Fraud
Fraudulent SMS messages like these are becoming more common. To protect yourself from falling for such scams, consider these tips:
- Be cautious of unsolicited messages. If a text comes from an unknown sender or a service you don’t typically use, be wary.
- Do not click on suspicious links. These could be phishing attempts designed to steal your data.
- Verify any claims through official channels. If you receive a message that seems legitimate, always confirm by contacting the company directly through their official website or customer service.
- Avoid sharing personal information via SMS. Never give out sensitive details like your PAN card, bank account, or passwords in response to an unsolicited message.
- Report suspicious messages. If you believe you’ve received a fraudulent SMS, report it to your mobile carrier or the appropriate authorities.
- Keep your device secure. Regularly update your phone’s operating system and apps to protect against security vulnerabilities.
By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these types of scams. Stay alert, and always double-check before taking any action.
