Christmas Cheer Turns Risky As WhatsApp Gift Link Scams Surge Across India

As Christmas 2025 celebrations gather momentum across the country, cybercrime authorities are warning of a sharp rise in WhatsApp-based scams disguised as festive greetings and gift offers.

Fraudsters are taking advantage of the holiday spirit, sending convincing messages that tempt users into clicking on malicious links capable of draining bank accounts in a short span of time.

Officials say scammers often send these messages as WhatsApp forwards that appear to come from friends, relatives, or trusted contacts. In many cases, compromised accounts lend credibility to the fraud.

The fraud typically begins with cheerful messages such as ‘Merry Christmas! A special gift awaits you’, or ‘Your Christmas reward is ready to claim’. These messages include shortened or masked links that promise cashbacks, shopping vouchers or festive bonuses.

Once users tap the link, they are redirected to fake websites designed to resemble popular brands, banks or digital payment platforms.

Victims are then prompted to share personal details, banking information or OTPs, or are asked to install an app that grants excessive permissions.

In several cases, malware enables scammers to access phones remotely, read messages and carry out unauthorised transactions.

Why Festive Seasons Attract Scammers

Cyber experts note that festivals create ideal conditions for fraud. People are often distracted, emotionally engaged and less cautious during celebrations.

Scammers claim offers are time-limited or valid only for the day, prompting users to act without verifying the details.

Messages offering free money or gifts without participation are a major red flag. Requests for OTPs, card details or app downloads through WhatsApp links should raise immediate suspicion.

Poor spelling, unfamiliar website addresses, and instructions to forward the link further are also common indicators of fraud.

Authorities advise users to avoid clicking on unknown links, even if they appear to come from known contacts.

Festive offers should always be verified independently. Users should keep two-step verification enabled on WhatsApp, avoid sharing sensitive financial information and monitor linked devices regularly.

If fraud is suspected, victims should immediately inform their bank and contact the national cybercrime helpline on 1930 or file a complaint via cybercrime.gov.in. Officials stress that swift reporting can significantly reduce financial damage.

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