Fake prize letters sent using names of online shopping platforms; Kerala Police issue warning

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Fraudsters are using the names of leading online shopping platforms to send fake prize letters through registered post and cheat people of their money, Kerala Police have warned. The letters contain attractive scratch cards and are sent to unsuspecting customers. When the card is scratched, it shows that the recipient has won a large cash prize. The letter then asks the recipient to contact a helpline number or WhatsApp number mentioned in it to claim the prize.

The fraudsters, posing as company representatives, then demand money in advance in the name of processing fees, documentation charges and income tax before transferring the prize money to the victim's account. To gain the victims' trust, they may also send fake income tax documents and official-looking seals through WhatsApp. However, once the victims transfer money to the accounts provided by the fraudsters, they can no longer contact them.

Police have warned that asking for advance payment for scratch cards or gift offers is a clear sign of fraud. People should not call unfamiliar numbers or share personal information, including bank details, through WhatsApp. Those who fall victim to such cyber fraud should immediately report the incident by calling the cyber helpline number 1930 or by filing a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in.