The government has issued a strong warning to pensioners across the country to remain cautious about fraudulent schemes aimed at stealing their retirement money. As online transactions and services grow more common, cybercriminals are finding new ways to take advantage of the elderly. Recently, a disturbing trend has emerged where senior citizens, especially those relying on pensions, are being targeted by scammers posing as government officials.
How the Scams Are Being Carried Out
According to the Central Pension Accounting Office (CPAO), fraudsters are pretending to be CPAO officials and are contacting pensioners through WhatsApp, email, and SMS. These criminals send fake forms and falsely claim that if the pensioners do not fill them out, their pension payments will stop the following month.
The CPAO has made it clear that neither their office nor any other government agency would ever ask for personal details like PPO number, date of birth, or bank account information. They have urged all pensioners not to share such sensitive data with anyone over the phone or online.
Assam Police Issues Additional Alert for Retirees
In a related incident, Assam Police has also issued a public warning after discovering a scam where fraudsters are pretending to be treasury officers. These criminals call retired individuals and claim that their pensions will soon be discontinued unless they share personal details.
The authorities have asked pensioners to be cautious and not entertain such phone calls. They have advised the public to verify any pension-related information directly with the concerned government departments and to report suspicious activity.
Essential Tips for Pensioners to Avoid Scams
The CPAO has offered key advice to help senior citizens and pensioners stay safe from fraud:
- Verify the Source: Before acting on any call, message, or email, always check with your bank or the pension office directly to confirm its legitimacy.
- Avoid Rushing Decisions: Fraudsters often try to rush their targets into making quick decisions. Always take time to verify any information before taking any action.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect a scam, report it immediately to the CPAO, your bank, or the police.
These simple precautions can help pensioners protect themselves from becoming victims of fraud.
