Hyderabad: Cyber Crime Police, Hyderabad, issued a cyber fraud advisory ahead of Christmas and New Year, warning citizens that fraudsters were actively targeting people during festive celebrations.
Officials said criminals exploited festive discounts, promotional offers and increased online transactions to cheat unsuspecting users. Therefore, police urged citizens to remain cautious while making online payments, bookings or purchases during the holiday season.
Police said fraudsters commonly circulated unknown links and fake mobile applications through WhatsApp, SMS and email messages. In addition, officials flagged lottery scams, cashback offers, lucky draw messages and fake refund alerts designed to steal personal and financial information.
As part of the cyber fraud advisory, police also cautioned citizens about fake New Year party passes and event tickets. Meanwhile, officials warned people about fraudulent travel bookings, hotel deals and fake cab or vehicle rental services that appeared convincing online.
Cyber fraud advisory lists preventive steps for citizens
The advisory further warned against fake charity appeals and fraudulent job or part-time work offers circulated during the festive period. As a result, police said citizens must verify every offer carefully before responding or making any payment.
Cyber Crime Police advised people not to click on suspicious links or download unknown applications from unverified sources. Moreover, officials warned citizens never to share OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers or bank account details with anyone.
Police asked victims to report cyber fraud immediately through the national cybercrime portal or by calling the 1930 helpline. Further, officials urged victims to preserve screenshots, transaction records and payment details to support investigations.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber Crimes) V. Aravind Babu, IPS, issued the cyber fraud advisory. Meanwhile, police said public awareness remained the most effective tool to prevent festive season cyber frauds.
PRESS NOTE
๐๐ฎ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐๐๐ฏ๐ข๐ฌ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฌ โ ๐๐ก๐ซ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฆ๐๐ฌ & ๐๐๐ฐ ๐๐๐๐ซ
With Christmas and New Year celebrations approaching, Cyber Crime Police, Hyderabad alert the public to remain vigilant, as cyber fraudsters exploit festive offers andโฆ
โ Hyderabad City Police (@hydcitypolice) December 17, 2025
