Fake Government Schemes
Incidents are reported where middlemen or agencies who have approached people to get their applications filed for various Government subsidy schemes. Messages are sent on the pretext of subsidies/ schemes/ grants/ offers by government to lure people into clicking on fake links or call on mentioned phone numbers.
Here's how these schemes typically operate:
- Impersonation: Scammers pose as government officials, representatives, or agencies, using official-sounding names and documents to appear legitimate.
- Unsolicited Contact: Victims may receive unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages claiming that they qualify for a government scheme, grant, or subsidy.
- Fees and Advance Payments: Fraudsters request upfront fees or advance payments to process the scheme or release funds, promising that the money will be refunded later.
- Fake Documents: Scammers provide fake application forms, letters of approval, or official documents to create an illusion of legitimacy.
- Personal Information: Victims are asked to provide personal and financial information, including Aadhaar numbers, bank account details, or copies of identification documents.
- False Promises: Scammers make false promises of significant financial benefits, tax rebates, or other incentives to lure victims into their schemes.