Scam awareness
Warning sign
An SMS or WhatsApp message says you've won BISP or scheme money and asks you to call a number, send a fee or share an OTP.
What's actually true
Genuine programmes don't charge a fee to release payments, and they never ask for your OTP or PIN. Check eligibility only through the official channel, such as SMS to 8171 for BISP.
Warning sign
A website copies a government logo but its address ends in .com, .online, .site or similar, or is misspelled.
What's actually true
Most official Pakistani government sites end in .gov.pk or a provincial domain such as .punjab.gov.pk, .gop.pk, .gos.pk, .gob.pk or .gok.pk. Always check the address bar before typing anything.
Warning sign
Someone offers to 'guarantee' a loan, housing scheme, laptop or job if you pay them first.
What's actually true
Applications for government schemes are made directly on the official portal or at an official centre. Pay only through the official challan or bank channel the scheme itself gives you.
Warning sign
A 'government job' requires an upfront registration or processing fee paid to a personal account or mobile wallet.
What's actually true
Real recruitment is announced by the relevant public service commission or department. Test fees, where they apply, are paid through official challans.
Warning sign
A caller claims your phone will be blocked unless you pay them now, or a 'customs officer' demands money to release a parcel.
What's actually true
Check a phone's status yourself on PTA's DIRBS system. Customs duty is paid through official channels, not to a person on the phone.
Warning sign
A stranger asks for photos of both sides of your CNIC, a selfie holding it, or your fingerprints.
What's actually true
These can be used to open SIMs, accounts or loans in your name. Share them only with an official office for a service you started yourself.
Call your bank immediately if money was taken, then report online fraud to FIA's cybercrime wing. Keep screenshots, numbers and transaction IDs.