Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
Jammu and Kashmir Police have issued a public advisory warning citizens against fake and suspicious advertisements on social media that are being used by cybercriminals to steal money, personal information and identities.
According to the advisory, scammers are using sponsored posts on major social media platforms to promote deceptive offers, including free gifts worth Rs 10,000, steep discounts and easy-return schemes. Such advertisements are often accompanied by urgent messages and links directing users to unknown or suspicious accounts and websites.
Police said fraudsters also impersonate established brands and use fake logos, branding and purported celebrity endorsements to make fraudulent advertisements appear legitimate.
Users who respond to such advertisements may be redirected to fraudulent websites or links and persuaded to provide sensitive personal or financial information. Police cautioned that scammers may also seek one-time passwords (OTPs) and other banking credentials to gain access to victims’ accounts.
J&K Police have advised citizens to verify the source and authenticity of online advertisements before responding to any offer.
People have been urged to be particularly cautious about deals that appear “too good to be true” and to avoid sharing banking details, OTPs, passwords or other sensitive information with unknown persons or websites.
Police also advised users to think carefully before clicking on unfamiliar links and to report suspicious advertisements, profiles and accounts to the concerned social media platforms.
Citizens who fall victim to cyber fraud should act immediately by contacting the National Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or registering a complaint through the government’s cybercrime reporting portal at cybercrime.gov.in.
Police stressed that timely reporting can help initiate the necessary action and improve the chances of preventing further financial loss.
