Life Certificate Update Scam Alert: Pensioners Warned to Avoid Fake Calls and Fraud Links
The annual drive to submit Digital Life Certificates (DLC) for central government pensioners is now underway, but alongside this official campaign, cybercriminals have also become active. As tech adoption grows, so do cases of fraud, identity theft, and fake calls targeting vulnerable pensioners. To ensure the safety of their personal information and pension benefits, the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) has issued fresh guidelines and warnings.
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Digital Life Certificate Campaign Starts Nationwide
From 1 November, the government launched its annual Digital Life Certificate submission campaign, known as DLC Campaign 4.0, which runs until 30 November. Millions of pensioners across the country will verify their identity through digital platforms during this period to ensure uninterrupted pension payments.
However, as the volume of online submissions increases, cyber fraudsters are attempting to exploit the situation by making fake calls and sending misleading links. The government has urged pensioners to remain vigilant and follow the official procedure only.
Submit Life Certificate Only Through Authorized Platforms
The pension department has clearly stated that Digital Life Certificates should be submitted only through registered and trusted platforms, including:
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Aadhaar Face RD App
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India Post’s official app
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Jeevan Pramaan portal (jeevanpramaan.gov.in)
Any third-party app, unknown website, or unauthorized agent should be avoided completely. Using such channels can put personal identity and financial information at risk.
Never Share Personal Details With Callers
Cybercriminals commonly try to extract sensitive information by pretending to be government officials. They may ask pensioners for details such as:
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Aadhaar number
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Pension Payment Order (PPO) number
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Mobile number
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Bank account details
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OTP or PIN
The government has emphasized that no official department ever asks for OTPs, passwords, or banking details over phone calls or emails. Pensioners must strictly avoid sharing such information with anyone.
Be Alert to Fraud Calls and Messages
Fraudsters often call pensioners claiming that their pension will be stopped unless they “update their life certificate immediately.” These calls may be accompanied by suspicious links or emails.
Pensioners should:
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Verify any message before responding
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Ignore unknown links
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Avoid installing apps sent through unofficial sources
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Disconnect any suspicious calls immediately
Clicking on a fraudulent link can result in personal data theft or unauthorized access to bank accounts.
Use Only Secure Devices and Internet Connections
When generating or submitting the Digital Life Certificate, pensioners must ensure:
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Their mobile phone or computer has updated antivirus software
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The device operating system is updated
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They use a secure and private internet connection
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They avoid public Wi-Fi networks, which are highly vulnerable to cyber-attacks
Public networks are the easiest targets for hackers, making them unsafe for any activity involving personal or financial data.
Report Any Suspicious Activity Immediately
If a pensioner receives a suspicious call, notices an unknown login alert, or is asked to share OTPs, they must report it at once.
Steps to take:
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Inform the bank immediately.
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Report the incident on the National Cybercrime Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).
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Block any compromised account or card if necessary.
Quick reporting helps prevent financial loss and protects personal identity.
What Is a Life Certificate?
A Digital Life Certificate, also called Jeevan Pramaan, is an Aadhaar-based digital verification that confirms a pensioner is alive and eligible to continue receiving pension benefits. Traditionally, pensioners had to physically visit banks or post offices to submit the certificate. With Aadhaar-enabled technology, they can now complete the process from home using their smartphone, biometrics, or other approved tools.
Submitting the certificate every November is mandatory for all central government pensioners.
Final Advice for Pensioners
As the DLC Campaign 4.0 continues, pensioners are encouraged to stay cautious, use only official channels, and avoid engaging with unknown callers or websites. By following these essential precautions, they can keep their pension secure and prevent falling victim to cyber fraud.
