PIB Fact Check: Doctored Video Falsely Claims FM Nirmala Sitharaman Endorsed Scheme Promising ₹5,000 Per Hour

A video circulating widely on social media claims that Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has endorsed a so-called ‘investment opportunity’ that promises earnings of ₹5,000 per hour and returns of up to ₹1 crore within six months.

The clip, packaged with official-looking graphics and text overlays, has been shared across messaging apps, raising concerns among unsuspecting investors.

However, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check unit has categorically dismissed the video, calling it ‘fake and AI-generated’.

In an official post on X, PIB clarified that neither the Finance Minister nor the Government of India has announced, promoted or endorsed any such investment scheme.

What the Fake Video Claims?

The fabricated video attempts to mimic a government-backed financial initiative, implying guaranteed high returns with minimal effort. It appears to leverage deepfake techniques to show the Finance Minister speaking about the alleged scheme.

Experts say such tactics are increasingly common in online scam campaigns aimed at exploiting public trust in government figures.

PIB’s Clarification

In its advisory, PIB Fact Check urged citizens to remain vigilant, stressing that the government does not operate or approve programmes that promise unrealistic profits.

The post warned users to verify any investment-related information through official government channels and to avoid falling for schemes that rely on sensational claims.

Digital safety analysts note that deepfake scams have grown more sophisticated in recent months.

Fraudsters frequently impersonate public officials, corporate leaders and celebrities to lure victims into fraudulent schemes. High-return investment scams, in particular, remain one of the most common forms of online financial fraud.

How to Stay Safe?

• Treat any investment promising unusually high, quick returns with suspicion.
• Verify claims directly from official government websites, press releases or trusted financial institutions.
• Report suspicious content to cybercrime authorities or the relevant platform.

The video claiming that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is promoting a ₹5,000-per-hour investment plan is entirely false. It is an AI-generated fabrication designed to mislead viewers.

Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and avoid sharing such misleading content.

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