Bright colours, cheerful wishes, and festive offers, Holi is a time for celebration. But while you’re busy sharing “Happy Holi” messages, scammers may be busy trying to trick you. From fake QR codes to colourful GIFs carrying phishing links, cyber fraudsters often use festivals as an excuse to target people. Here’s how you can stay safe and celebrate without stress. Beware of QR code and GIF scams One of the most common tricks during festivals is something called “quishing,” phishing through QR codes. Scammers may send you a QR code in a WhatsApp message, SMS, or social media post claiming you’ve won a gift or cashback offer. The moment you scan it, you could be redirected to a fake website or unknowingly approve a payment. What you should do: Be careful with festive links on WhatsApp Holi greetings often come with bright images, videos, and animated GIFs. But some of these can hide harmful links. Fraudsters create fake “Holi gift” offers or discount links that look tempting. Clicking on them can install malware or take you to a fake website that steals your details. How to stay safe: Also read: Want to use Instagram and WhatsApp secretly? Here’s how you can stay online but appear offline
Protect your bank and UPI details During festive sales and offers, scammers often pretend to be bank officials or customer care executives. They may ask for your OTP or UPI PIN, claiming it’s needed to process a refund or prize. Golden rule: No real bank employee will ever ask for your OTP, ATM PIN, or UPI PIN. You can also: A few extra seconds of checking can save you from major financial loss. Also read: Instagram to alert parents if kids search for suicide terms
If you become a victim, act fast If you suspect fraud: Holi should be about colours, laughter, and celebration, not stress over lost money. This festive season, enjoy the greetings, but think twice before scanning, clicking or sharing.
