In today’s digital age, mobile phones and the internet have made our lives incredibly easy. Money transfers are made from the comfort of our homes, the status of schemes can be checked, and many government tasks can be completed online. However, some cybercriminals exploit this technology to target innocent people, and farmers suffer the most.
How are cybercriminals targeting farmers
Cybercriminals nowadays use various methods to contact farmers. Sometimes they send social media links, sometimes they call in the name of KYC updates, and sometimes they send messages threatening to withhold installments. In a recent major case, fraudsters sent a fake link to the PM Kisan Yojana scheme to a farmer via Instagram. Upon clicking the link, an APK app was installed on his mobile phone, through which the fraudsters stole his banking details and transferred lakhs of rupees to various accounts.
This incident is proof that even a small mistake can cause huge losses for farmers. Therefore, it is crucial that farmers understand all digital information and stay away from fake links.
Beware of links on social media
Farmers often receive messages on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp stating, “Your installment is stuck, click here.” But farmers, beware, the government never sends a link to release your installment or update your KYC through social media.
Any link sent on social media is almost 100% fake. Clicking on such a link could result in a virus, fake app, or data-stealing software downloading onto your phone. For this reason, farmers should not trust any PM Kisan-related messages or links on social media.
Avoid fake KYC messages and go directly to the official website.
Fraudsters often send text messages that say, “Get your KYC done immediately, or your installment will be stopped.” This message contains a link, clicking on which leaves your information in the hands of cybercriminals.
But remember
- You can only complete your KYC on the official website, pmkisan.gov.in.
- You can also use the PM Kisan app or visit your nearest CSC center to update your KYC.
- Never open any link that comes through a message or social media.
- Never share banking information over phone calls.
Many farmers receive calls claiming, “If you don’t verify your information, your installment will be stopped.” The caller even pretends to be a department official. But this is all a lie. Government departments never ask for your banking information, OTP, card number, or account details over the phone.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana |
| Fraud Type | Fake links, KYC scam messages, bank verification calls |
| Recent Case | ₹7.77 lakh stolen via an Instagram fake PM Kisan link |
| Primary Warning | Avoid clicking links on social media or unknown messages |
| Safety Measures | Use only the official website pmkisan.gov.in for KYC |
| Helpline Numbers | 155261 / 1800-115-526 / 011-24300606 |
| Where to Report Fraud | cybercrime.gov.in or emergency helpline 1930 |
F&Q – Answers to Farmers’ Most Common Questions
Q1: Does the government send links related to PM Kisan on social media?
No, the government never shares links through social media.
Q2: Does the KYC link come via text message?
No, KYC is only done at the official website or CSC center.
Q3: What should you do if someone claims your installment is stuck and sends you a link?
Do not click on that link at all. It is fake.
Q4: What can farmers do if they are scammed?
Immediately file a complaint on the cybercrime portal cybercrime.gov.in.
Q5: Are bank details requested for PM Kisan over the phone?
No, the department never asks for banking information over the phone.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and awareness purposes only. All measures described here are based on general cybersecurity advice. Always check any scheme, KYC, or installment information on the official portal pmkisan.gov.in. Be wary of any fake links, calls, or messages.