Recharge Cashback and Free Data Offer Scam on WhatsApp

How it looks on WhatsApp, the red flags and what to do.

On WhatsApp the scammer can send images, voice notes, PDFs and APK files, and a friendly profile photo makes the first message feel safe. Recharge Cashback and Free Data Offer Scam is one of the ways this shows up: Messages promise free recharge, bonus data or cashback on your next top-up through a link. The page collects UPI or card details or installs an app.

What recharge cashback and free data offer scam looks like on WhatsApp

• A group invite promising returns, jobs or prizes.
• A PDF, APK or image that must be opened to "see the details".
• A link that pretends to be a wa.me, courier or bank page.

The message arrives in a family or office group, often with a friendly voice and emoji. It names a major operator and a festival, an anniversary or a cricket match as the reason. It says the offer ends soon. Because it comes from a contact, people trust it, and the forward chain makes it feel like a common offer that many people already used.

Red flags to check on the WhatsApp message

• A free recharge for months is offered to everyone.
• You must share the message with many groups to unlock it.
• A Re 1 payment is needed to verify your number.
• It asks for a UPI PIN to receive a reward.
• A file ending in .apk arrives; never install it.
• Someone asks for the six-digit code WhatsApp sent you by SMS.

What to do

1. Do not tap the link or forward it.
2. Check offers inside your operator's official app only.
3. Tell the person who sent it that it may be a scam.
4. If it was a "friend", call them on the number you already have and ask.
5. Turn on two-step verification in WhatsApp settings so a stolen SMS code is not enough.
6. Warn the group or family, and report the number on Sanchar Saathi if it is a scam call or message.

Inside WhatsApp use Block and report; for numbers that call or text you, the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility) also takes complaints.

If money or a code is already gone

1. Call 1930 right away if any money was taken, even a small amount.
2. Ask your bank through the number on your card to block the card or UPI if you shared details.
3. Uninstall any app you installed and review permissions.
4. File a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in with the link and screenshots.

National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930; report at cybercrime.gov.in.

Safeavio Sentinel's link check lets you paste the offer link before you open it and shows lookalike or shortened-link signs. The scam check reads the forward you share and explains why the offer looks risky, such as a share demand and a PIN request. The Money Shield checklist reminds you that you never need a PIN to receive money. Safeavio cannot confirm genuine operator offers, so use the operator's app.

Full guide: Recharge Cashback and Free Data Offer Scam: how it works, signs and what to do. Other channels: SMS, social media.

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