Deepfake Government Scheme Endorsement Scam — How to Identify & Stay Safe

INDIA — By BharatSecure Threat Intelligence Team · Updated Apr 29, 2026

Severity: CRITICAL | View Full Scam Details

Deepfake Disaster: Government Scheme Scam Steals Lakhs in 2026

The Deepfake Government Scheme Endorsement Scam is a sophisticated cybercrime targeting Indians, where convincing fake videos are used to trick people into sharing personal data and transferring money, often via UPI.

What Is the Deepfake Government Scheme Endorsement Scam?

This scam, increasingly prevalent in India in 2026, leverages advanced deepfake technology to create realistic videos appearing to feature government officials or celebrities endorsing fake investment schemes or welfare programs. These deepfakes are often spread through WhatsApp, social media, or even as convincing ads online. The victims, believing they are acting on the advice of a trusted or well-known figure, are then lured into providing their Aadhaar details, bank account information, or making UPI payments under false pretenses.

The scam capitalizes on the trust Indians place in government initiatives and the desire to benefit from social welfare programs. Fraudsters meticulously craft these deepfakes to bypass scrutiny, making them exceptionally dangerous. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has issued several warnings regarding the rise of deepfake-related financial fraud, highlighting the challenges in tracing and prosecuting perpetrators who often operate across borders. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), too, has cautioned against trusting unsolicited investment advice received through unverified sources, especially those promising unusually high returns.

How This Scam Works – Step by Step

1. The Bait: The victim receives a WhatsApp message or sees a social media ad featuring a deepfake video. The video may show a credible figure, like a government minister or a respected actor, endorsing a new government scheme that offers high returns or easy access to welfare benefits. This video might mention a new COVID relief fund, a new initiative by the Ministry of Finance, or a special program for senior citizens.

2. Creating Urgency: The deepfake video stresses a limited-time offer or the need to register urgently. This pressure tactic is designed to prevent victims from thinking clearly or consulting with trusted sources.

3. Data Collection: The video or accompanying message directs the victim to a website or app to register for the scheme. The website often has a similar look and feel to a real government website to build trust. The registration form will ask for personal information such as name, age, address, Aadhaar number, PAN card details, bank account details, and UPI ID.

4. "Verification" Scam: After initial registration, the victim receives a call from someone posing as a government official who states the need for a small "verification" fee to process the application through UPI. This amount may start small (INR 100-500) but escalate as the fraudster gains the victim's trust.

5. UPI Manipulation: The fraudsters obtain access to the victim's UPI account through seemingly innocuous requests. They might trick the victim into approving a UPI mandate or using screen-sharing apps that allow them to control the victim’s phone.

6. Theft: Once the fraudster has access, they can transfer funds out of the victim's account, often emptying it completely. Moreover, the stolen personal information is then sold on the dark web or used for other fraudulent activities, like opening fake bank accounts or obtaining loans in the victim's name.

Real Warning Signs to Watch For

• Unsolicited Videos featuring Public Figures: Be extremely wary of any video received through unverified sources, especially if it features a government official or celebrity endorsing a financial scheme.
• Promises of Guaranteed High Returns: No legitimate government scheme or investment guarantees exceptionally high returns in a short period. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Requests for Aadhaar or Bank Details Upfront: Genuine government programs usually don't ask for sensitive information like Aadhaar number or UPI ID upfront before basic eligibility is even assessed.
• Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers use urgency to prevent you from thinking critically. A genuine government scheme will have clear deadlines, but not an overwhelming pressure to register immediately.
• Suspicious Websites and Apps: Always verify the authenticity of websites and apps before providing any information. Check for spelling errors, look for security certificates (HTTPS), and cross-reference with official government portals.
• Requests for "Verification" Fees: Government schemes are generally intended to help citizens and do not typically involve charging verification fees during registration. This is a significant red flag.
• Unusual UPI Requests: Be cautious of any UPI requests, especially if you're asked to approve a mandate or enter your PIN under unexpected circumstances. Government officials will never ask you to share your UPI PIN.

What Happens to Victims

The Deepfake Government Scheme Endorsement Scam can have devastating consequences for victims in India. Financially, they can lose their entire savings through fraudulent UPI transfers. The emotional impact is significant, leading to stress, anxiety, and a loss of trust. Moreover, the misuse of stolen Aadhaar information can lead to identity theft, making it difficult to access future government services or secure loans. Victims may also experience SIM swap fraud, where fraudsters gain control of their mobile number, further compromising their bank accounts and personal information. The process to reverse UPI transactions or recover lost funds can be lengthy and complex, requiring victims to navigate the Indian banking and legal systems.

What RBI and CERT-In Say

The RBI frequently issues public advisories cautioning citizens against sharing sensitive financial information with unknown individuals. They emphasize that neither the RBI nor any government agency will ever ask for personal details through unsolicited emails, SMS messages, or WhatsApp communications. CERT-In actively monitors and disseminates security alerts related to emerging cyber threats, including deepfake-related scams. They advise users to be vigilant and verify any information received from unknown sources. The RBI has a dedicated cybercrime awareness page on its website where it publishes relevant alerts and provides guidance on safe banking practices. Remember the cybercrime helpline 1930 is crucial for reporting any such incident.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Verify Information at the Source: Always cross-reference any information about government schemes with official government websites and portals (e.g., checking for schemes on the actual department's official website).
2. Be Skeptical of WhatsApp Messages: Treat all information received via WhatsApp, especially regarding financial matters, with extreme caution. Verify the sender's identity and the message's authenticity before taking any action.
3. Install Anti-Deepfake Software: Consider installing anti-deepfake software or browser extensions designed to detect manipulated media. Although still evolving, these tools can provide an extra layer of protection.
4. Enable UPI Transaction Limits: Set daily transaction limits on your UPI accounts to minimize potential losses in case of fraud. Most banking apps allow you to customize these limits.
5. Never Share OTPs or PINs: Under no circumstances should you share your OTP, UPI PIN, or any other sensitive financial information with anyone over the phone or online, regardless of who they claim to be.
6. Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately report any suspicious activity to your bank and the cybercrime authorities.
7. Educate Others: Share this information with your family and friends, especially those who may be less familiar with online scams, to help them stay safe. Take special care to warn senior citizens.

What to Do If You've Been Targeted

If you believe you have been a victim of the Deepfake Government Scheme Endorsement Scam:

1. Immediately Contact Your Bank: Inform your bank about the fraudulent transaction and request them to freeze your accounts and block UPI access.
2. Report to the Cybercrime Helpline (1930): Call the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 to report the incident and get guidance on the next steps.
3. File a Complaint on Cybercrime.gov.in: File a formal complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in). Provide all relevant details, including screenshots, transaction IDs, and the phone numbers of the fraudsters.
4. Inform Aadhaar Authority (UIDAI): Report the misuse of your Aadhaar number to UIDAI and consider locking your biometric data to prevent further fraudulent activities.
5. Change All Passwords: Change all your passwords for online banking, email, and other sensitive accounts. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I tell if a video is a deepfake?

A: Deepfakes are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but some clues include unnatural lip movements, inconsistent lighting or shadows, and bizarre facial expressions. Trust your gut - if something seems off, it probably is. However, definitive identification can be difficult without specialized tools.

Q: What if I only shared my Aadhaar number but didn't lose any money yet?

A: Even if you haven't lost money, sharing your Aadhaar number with scammers can lead to identity theft. Report the incident to UIDAI immediately and consider locking your biometric data. Remain vigilant for any suspicious activity related to your bank accounts or credit reports.

Q: Are government schemes legitimate if they are advertised online?

A: Government schemes are often advertised online, but they should always be verified on the official government website of the relevant department. Never trust information received solely through social media or WhatsApp. Always check the official source.

Stay vigilant and always verify suspicious messages at BharatSecure.app.