As the eagerly awaited consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya approaches, fraudulent activities are on the rise. People are receiving messages on WhatsApp from cybercriminals promising free VIP entrance to the Ayodhya temple on January 22. These messages contain an APK (Android Application Package) file named ‘Ram Janmabhoomi Grihsampark Abhiyan.APK.’ Subsequently, a second message encourages recipients to install this app for supposed VIP access, urging them to share it within their circles, according to a report on news18. This scam targets devotees eager to be part of the temple’s opening celebrations.\

सावधान..!!
श्री राम जन्मभूमि तीर्थ क्षेत्र के नाम से फर्जी आईडी बना कर कुछ लोग पैसा ठगी का प्रयास कर रहे हैं। @HMOIndia @CPDelhi @dgpup @Uppolice को ऐसे लोगों के विरूद्ध विलम्ब कार्यवाही करनी चहिए। @ShriRamTeerth has not authorised any body to collect funds for this occasion. pic.twitter.com/YHhgTBXEKi

— विनोद बंसल Vinod Bansal (@vinod_bansal) December 31, 2023

It’s crucial to note that these messages are not associated with any government or temple management entities.

Previously, a scheme to defraud devotees in the name of temple donations was flagged. Vinod Bansal of Vishwa Hindu Parishad has raised an alarm on social media, advising people not to fall victim to cybercriminals creating fake IDs in the name of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra.

The VHP leader, on X (formerly known as Twitter), mentioned the creation of a fake social media page titled “Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Chhetra Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.” The page, equipped with a QR code, asks users to contribute funds for the construction of the Ram Temple.

To stay alert to online scams:

Avoid downloading unknown files or suspicious-looking apps for online safety.
Verify any news related to the Ram Mandir opening through trusted sources or official channels.
As we eagerly anticipate the grand inauguration, let’s remain vigilant to any suspicious activities and promptly report them to the authorities. Being mindful and informed will help protect us from falling victim to such cyber scams.

To avoid being duped by QR-based payment scams:

• Avoid making payments or scanning random QR codes on the internet, as they may redirect to malicious links.
• Verify the source of the UPI ID, cross-check account holder details, or reach out to official authorities using the provided contact details on the site.