Hyderabad Cybercrime Police Issue Festive-Season Online Fraud Advisory

Overview

• The advisory warns of a likely surge in scams around Christmas and New Year targeting online shopping, travel bookings and event planning.
• Listed tactics include counterfeit party and concert passes, fake hotel and resort websites, low-cost holiday packages that disappear after advances, and bogus cab or rental services.
• Police flagged messages pushing lottery wins, refunds, bonuses or reward points, as well as WhatsApp links for Christmas Mass entry or parking permits.
• Citizens are told not to click unknown links or download APKs, not to share OTPs, PINs or CVV numbers, and to avoid scanning unknown QR codes or approving unsolicited UPI requests.
• Authorities advise verifying offers through official platforms, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping devices updated, discussing cyber safety with seniors and youth, and reporting incidents at www.cybercrime.gov.in or by calling 1930 while preserving evidence.