Pensioners are increasingly being targeted by fraudsters impersonating officials from the Central Pension Accounting Office (CPAO) in New Delhi. These scammers are using WhatsApp to send fake forms to pensioners, claiming that if they do not fill them out, their pension payments will be stopped next month.
What pensioners need to know
These scammers aim to trick pensioners into sharing sensitive personal information, which can lead to identity theft and financial loss. It’s crucial to stay alert and protect your pension from these fraudulent activities.
Here’s how pensioners can safeguard their pensions
If you receive a message claiming to be from the CPAO or any government agency, verify its authenticity. Government agencies usually do not request personal information through WhatsApp or other informal channels.
Never provide your Pension Payment Order (PPO) number, date of birth, bank account details, or any other sensitive information through WhatsApp or any messaging platform.
Also read: Central govt pensioners must be paid pensions by last working day of each month: FinMin to banks
If you receive suspicious messages, contact the CPAO or your bank directly using official contact details, not the ones given in the suspicious message.
Stay informed about common scams and share this information with fellow pensioners in your community to help protect them.
If you encounter a scam, report it to the relevant authorities immediately to prevent others from falling victim.
Conclusion:
The CPAO, banks, and other government agencies will never ask for personal information like your PPO number or bank account details through WhatsApp or unofficial channels. Always be cautious and safeguard your personal information to ensure your pension remains secure.
This advisory serves as a reminder for all Central Pension Processing Centres (CPPCs) to inform pensioners about these scams and encourage vigilance.