Beware! This fake 'BJP Free Recharge Yojana' scam promises free mobile recharge

To lend an air of authenticity, the accompanying website showcases purported testimonials from individuals who claim to have already received the promised free recharge, encouraging others to avail themselves of the opportunity.

The scam operates akin to classic phishing tactics: users are prompted to share the link with their contacts on WhatsApp to claim the recharge, a process reminiscent of chain-letter schemes.

Upon visiting the website, users encounter a "Get Free Recharge" pop-up, leading them to select their mobile service provider and enter their phone number. CloudSEK's investigations revealed that even entering a random 10-digit number redirects users to the recharge activation page, a strong indication of malicious intent.

Subsequently, the website falsely notifies users of a successful recharge, contingent upon sharing the offer with multiple WhatsApp groups or contacts. This coercive tactic leverages social sharing to perpetuate the scheme, illustrating its manipulative nature.

“This deceptive strategy involves leveraging the victim for social sharing, demonstrating the manipulative nature of the scheme,” CloudSEK said.

It is important to look out for simple giveaways in the website URL to save yourself from such scams.

“http” instead of “https” protocol. The ‘s’ here stands for secure and suggests that the connection is secure and all the data you share on the website will remain private.

Trusted domain names include .com, .in, .co.in, .org, .gov, etc. Also, try to look for typos in the website name. If it is gibberish, it is very likely to be a scam.

If you see a ⚠️ icon next to the URL, do not share your information on the website as it isn’t safe.

Another important tip is to check official websites for all ongoing schemes and plans that the government is currently running or has in the pipeline.

CloudSEK also added that it has informed the Election Commission and all regulators and companies named in the scam, as part of responsible disclosure.