Scam Alert: 'Get a ₹3 Lakh Loan Using Your Aadhaar Card' — Beware of This Message..
Scam Alert: In today's digital age, something new goes viral on social media every day; however, trusting everything you see can be dangerous. Currently, a fraudulent advertisement is spreading rapidly, claiming that one can obtain a loan of up to ₹3 lakh—solely based on an Aadhaar card—under the 'Pradhan Mantri Loan Yojana' (Prime Minister's Loan Scheme). If you have come across such a message or advertisement, exercise caution immediately.
What is this new scam?
This fraudulent scheme lures people with the promise of easy and instant loans. The advertisements are designed to look exactly like official government schemes. Often, they feature an 'Apply Now' button, a link, or a QR code; clicking on these redirects you to an unfamiliar website or mobile application.
The government's fact-checking agency, PIB Fact Check, has explicitly stated that no scheme exists under the name 'Pradhan Mantri Loan Yojana.' The government is not currently operating any scheme under this specific name.
How do people fall victim to this scam?
This scam specifically targets individuals who are in urgent need of money. As soon as a person clicks on the link, they are prompted to provide their Aadhaar number, mobile number, and banking details. Many people, acting in haste, readily provide this information.
Subsequently, the fraudsters misuse this data. Using the information you have provided, they can withdraw funds from your bank account or commit identity theft.
Points to Keep in Mind
It is worth noting that this is not the first such fraudulent scheme; instances of people being defrauded in the name of government schemes have surfaced in the past as well. To ensure you do not fall victim to such scams:
Do not trust any offer that claims to provide an instant loan without any verification process.
Always verify information regarding government schemes by visiting their official websites only.
Never share your personal details—such as your Aadhaar number, OTPs, or banking information—on any unfamiliar website.
Be wary of messages that create a sense of urgency, contain suspicious links, or feature poor grammar and language errors.
What to do if you receive such a message?
If you encounter such an advertisement or message, do not simply ignore it. You can report this to PIB Fact Check or the relevant social media platform. Remember, not everything that glitters on the internet is gold. The lure of easy loans can land you in serious trouble. Therefore, act wisely, verify every piece of information, and stay safe.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
