PIB Fact Check, the Government of India’s official agency for countering misinformation, has issued a public advisory explaining how citizens can identify fake websites and protect themselves from online fraud and phishing attempts.
The awareness campaign encourages internet users to adopt simple verification practices before sharing personal or financial information on any website.
The advisory highlights several practical methods for recognising suspicious websites. Users should first confirm that the website address begins with ‘HTTPS’ and verify that the URL contains the correct spelling without unusual characters or misleading variations.
The advisory also recommends checking for the padlock security icon displayed beside the web address, indicating a secure connection.
PIB Fact Check further advised users to carefully examine the website’s contact details and verify whether genuine customer support information is available.
It also cautioned people against websites displaying excessive pop-up advertisements or offering unrealistic discounts, rewards or investment opportunities, as these often indicate fraudulent activity.
To make the guidance easier to understand, PIB Fact Check accompanied the advisory with an infographic titled ‘HOW TO SPOT FAKE WEBSITE’.
Don’t fall for online traps!
Before clicking, make sure the website is real.
Spotting a fake site is easier than you think!#PIBFactCheck:🔍 Check the URL (look for https & spelling errors)
🔒 No padlock icon? Don’t trust it
📞 No contact info or shady About page? 🚩
⚠️… pic.twitter.com/tPvbcuwxL2
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) July 3, 2026
The visual presentation illustrates each safety measure through clear graphics, enabling users to recognise warning signs quickly while browsing online.
The campaign reinforces the importance of digital awareness as cybercriminals increasingly rely on fake websites to steal sensitive information.
By encouraging routine security checks and careful verification, the government aims to strengthen public resilience against online scams and promote safer internet usage across the country.
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