In a digital age, as the nation awaits the inauguration of the Ram Mandir on January 22, a disconcerting undercurrent has emerged, with scammers exploiting religious fervor for their nefarious gains.
From deceptive VIP WhatsApp invites to questionable Prasad distribution schemes, a dark shadow looms over this sacred event.
India Today takes you through the scams that are currently afloat –
SCAM 1 – Marketplace Mirage: Fake Claims on E-commerce Giants:
Online marketplaces, including giants like Amazon, have become a breeding ground for scams claiming to offer authorised Ram Mandir Prasad.
Product descriptions boast endorsement by the Ram Mandir Janmabhoomi Trust, yet closer inspection reveals the lack of authenticity. Shoppers are urged to exercise caution and rely on verified sources.
To put authenticity to the sale, the marketplaces are claiming they can deliver the Prasad only on or after January 22.
SCAM 2 – Khadi Organic’s Prasad Predicament: A Marketing Mirage?
The promise of free Prasad from Khadi Organic has stirred controversy, with the catch being a delivery cost of 51. Social media platforms are abuzz with skepticism, questioning the authenticity of this seemingly benevolent gesture. While the company insists on its legitimacy, the surge in Instagram profiles claiming to distribute Prasad raises doubts about the purity of their intentions.
Speaking to India Today, Vinod Bansal, National Spokesperson, VHP said,”We have alerted time and again and given a written complaint against all these scams. The latest trend of selling Prasad is also dubious, no one can make Prasad available on 22nd. Sites like Amazon should exercise caution, else we will be forced to take legal steps.”
SCAM 3 – QR Code Deception: Exploiting Generosity for Ill Intent
In a heartless ruse, scammers are employing QR codes in the name of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, soliciting donations. Despite repeated clarifications from authorities that no such donation drive is underway, individuals are falling victim to this deceitful ploy. It serves as a stark reminder to verify the authenticity of such requests before parting with one’s hard-earned money.
SCAM 4: VIP WhatsApp Invite Scam: Unveiling the Digital Mirage
In the age of instant communication, scammers have seized the opportunity to exploit devotees’ eagerness for VIP access. A malicious APK named ‘Ram Janmabhoomi Grihsampark Abhiyan.APK’ is circulating, enticing users to install it for exclusive VIP entry. Cybersecurity experts caution that this could be a potential phishing or hacking attempt, urging users to exercise caution.
Speaking to India Today, Cyber Security expert, Pawan Dugga said, “People should be alert, don’t click any links, or give access to OTPs if you come across any such things exercise caution. Multiple techniques are being deployed to dupe people regarding Ram Mandir.”
In response to these emerging scams, the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Cyber Crime unit, I4C, has issued alerts to law enforcement agencies. This highlights the severity of the situation and emphasizes the need for collective awareness and proactive reporting to curb these digital deceptions.
In the digital age, where connectivity is a blessing, it is disheartening to witness such blatant attempts to exploit the sacredness of the Ram Mandir inauguration. As we eagerly await this historic event, let us remain vigilant, question the authenticity of online claims, and ensure that the sanctity of faith is preserved from the clutches of deceit.