Telangana govt warns of fake SIR messages stealing voters' bank details

The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has issued a public advisory warning citizens against a new cyber fraud in which scammers are impersonating Election Commission officials and targeting voters through fake Special Intensive Revision (SIR) messages to steal banking information.According to the bureau, cybercriminals are circulating fraudulent messages through WhatsApp and other digital platforms, claiming that a person's voter details are incorrect or that their SIR application has been rejected.The messages contain links that falsely promise to help voters update or correct their electoral information. Once contacted, the fraudsters, posing as Election Commission officials, ask victims to click on malicious links or join WhatsApp chats to complete the verification process.IT STARTS WITH RS 5The TGCSB said the scammers often demand a nominal payment, such as Rs 5, claiming it is required to verify or update voter details. After gaining the victim's trust, they attempt to obtain sensitive financial information, including internet banking credentials, debit and credit card details, PINs, passwords and other confidential data.The bureau clarified that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process is completely free of cost and that the Election Commission does not charge any fee for updating voter information or processing applications. Citizens have been advised not to respond to unsolicited calls or messages seeking payment for SIR-related services.AVOUD CLICKING ON SUSPICIOUS LINKSThe TGCSB also urged people to avoid clicking on suspicious links received through messaging platforms or social media and to verify any election-related communication only through official Election Commission channels.The cyber security agency further cautioned the public never to share confidential banking information, including internet banking usernames and passwords, debit or credit card details, PINs or One-Time Passwords (OTPs), with anyone claiming to be an election official.The advisory comes amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, with authorities warning that fraudsters may attempt to exploit the exercise to target unsuspecting voters. The TGCSB urged citizens to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious messages, phone calls or online links to the appropriate authorities or the cybercrime helpline.- EndsPublished By: Ritaban MisraPublished On: Aug 13, 2026 23:44 IST