Overview

• The ministry issued a public advisory after receiving complaints about fake SMS and WhatsApp messages that promise bonus payments or request Aadhaar details and OTPs.
• Beneficiaries have been instructed to verify registration details and payment status only on pmkisan.gov.in or through registered government outlets.
• Cybercrime officials recorded a noticeable spike in phishing attempts in July 2025 as the 20th instalment distribution approached.
• Farmers are being encouraged to report suspicious messages to local authorities or via the National Cybercrime Portal to help authorities track fraudsters.
• Authorities are expanding rural digital literacy with gram sabha cybersecurity sessions and local-language scam awareness campaigns to protect vulnerable beneficiaries.