📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / J. P. Warburton (Ludhiana Police superintendent)
Crime
Ludhiana Police Warn of Diwali Gift Scam Targeting Bank Accounts
✍️ Amar Ujala · Ludhiana
🗓 03 Nov 2026, 10:01 AM
👁 14
The Ludhiana police have cautioned residents against a cyber scam promising a ₹2,000 Diwali gift, warning that victims may end up with emptied bank accounts.
Ludhiana police issued an advisory this week urging citizens to stay vigilant against a new cyber fraud that exploits the festive spirit of Diwali. The warning highlights a scheme that tempts individuals with a promise of a ₹2,000 gift to celebrate the holiday.
According to the police, scammers contact potential victims through messages or calls, claiming that a free Diwali gift will be credited to their bank account upon providing personal and banking details. Once the information is shared, the fraudsters initiate unauthorized transactions, often leaving the victim’s account drained.
Authorities have advised the public not to disclose any banking credentials or OTPs to unknown callers, and to verify the authenticity of any such offers directly with their banks. Any suspicious communication should be reported immediately to the Ludhiana cyber crime cell.
The police noted that cyber‑related frauds typically surge during major festivals, and they are intensifying monitoring efforts to curb such activities and protect consumers.
According to the police, scammers contact potential victims through messages or calls, claiming that a free Diwali gift will be credited to their bank account upon providing personal and banking details. Once the information is shared, the fraudsters initiate unauthorized transactions, often leaving the victim’s account drained.
Authorities have advised the public not to disclose any banking credentials or OTPs to unknown callers, and to verify the authenticity of any such offers directly with their banks. Any suspicious communication should be reported immediately to the Ludhiana cyber crime cell.
The police noted that cyber‑related frauds typically surge during major festivals, and they are intensifying monitoring efforts to curb such activities and protect consumers.