Pensioners Warned of Rising Cyber Frauds While Filing Digital Life Certificates; Government Issues Alert

As pensioners across the country submit their Digital Life Certificates (DLC) this November, the government has issued a strong warning about a surge in cyber fraud attempts targeting senior citizens. The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) has urged all retirees to stay vigilant and use only official platforms to complete their annual life certificate submission. With the Digital Life Certificate Campaign 4.0 running from November 1 to November 30, 2025, cybercriminals are exploiting this period to trick pensioners into sharing sensitive personal information.

Use Only Authorized Platforms for DLC Submission

The government has emphasized that the Digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan) must be submitted only through approved and secure platforms. These include:

• Jeevan Pramaan Portal

• India Post Payment Bank (IPPB) App or Post Office App

• Aadhaar Face RD App

Using any unauthorized website, agent, or mobile application may expose pensioners to scams. Cybercriminals often create fake portals or phishing links that closely resemble official websites, making it easy for unsuspecting users to fall into their trap. These fraudulent links are designed to steal Aadhaar details, bank information, or OTPs.

Keep Aadhaar and Banking Information Confidential

The advisory clearly states that pensioners must never share their Aadhaar number, bank account details, PPO number, login credentials, or OTP with any unknown person. Fraudsters frequently pose as government officials or bank representatives to collect sensitive information. Once these details are shared, scammers can misuse them for identity theft or unauthorized financial transactions.

Sensitive data should be entered only on official government platforms or during in-person verification at an authorized center. No legitimate department ever asks for confidential banking information over calls or messages.

Beware of Fake Calls, Emails, and Messages

A large number of cyber complaints involve fraudulent calls or emails claiming to be from government agencies. The DoPPW clarified that government departments never request personal details such as OTPs, passwords, or ATM PINs through phone calls, SMS, or emails.

Pensioners are advised to ignore suspicious calls that pressure them to share information for “life certificate verification” or “pension clearance.” Similarly, links received via WhatsApp or email claiming to facilitate quick DLC submission should be verified before clicking.

Use Secure Devices and Internet Connections

While filing the DLC online, pensioners must ensure that their smartphone or computer has updated security patches, antivirus software, and the latest operating system updates. The government also recommends avoiding public Wi-Fi networks, as hackers can intercept data transmitted over unsecured connections.

Instead, pensioners should use their mobile data or a trusted home Wi-Fi network while completing digital documentation.

Report Suspicious Activity Immediately

If a pensioner notices any unauthorized activity—such as suspicious withdrawals, strange messages, or attempts to access personal accounts—they should immediately inform their bank. Additionally, cyber fraud cases can be reported on the official cybercrime portal (cybercrime.gov.in). Quick reporting greatly increases the chances of preventing financial loss.

What Is a Digital Life Certificate and Why Is It Important?

A Digital Life Certificate, commonly known as Jeevan Pramaan, is mandatory for pensioners every year. It serves as proof that the pensioner is alive and eligible to continue receiving their pension. The online system eliminates the need to visit banks or government offices physically, especially benefiting elderly or physically challenged retirees.

Through Aadhaar-based biometric or facial authentication, the DLC can now be submitted in minutes, making the process more convenient while ensuring uninterrupted pension disbursal.