Beware of Fake ₹8,000 Diwali Bonus Message Circulating on Social Media

A viral message claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is offering an ₹8,000 bonus for Diwali has been debunked by the Press Information Bureau (PIB). This misleading claim is part of a phishing scam designed to collect personal information. PIB advises the public to avoid clicking on suspicious links and to report any dubious messages. If you receive such a message, do not trust it, and ensure your banking details remain secure. For accurate information on government schemes, always refer to official sources. Stay informed and protect yourself from potential cyber fraud.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 3, 2026, 13:07 IST

Viral Message Claims ₹8,000 Bonus from PM Modi

A message claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is offering an ₹8,000 bonus to every citizen for Diwali has been rapidly spreading on social media and WhatsApp. The message encourages recipients to click on a link to register for this supposed government scheme. However, this enticing offer is actually a scam, as confirmed by the Press Information Bureau (PIB).

Truth Behind the ₹8,000 Bonus Claim

According to PIB's fact-check, there is no official announcement from the central government regarding an ₹8,000 bonus for citizens during Diwali. The claim circulating under the Prime Minister's name is entirely misleading. PIB has warned that this WhatsApp message directs users to a fraudulent website that requests personal information.

Risk of Cyber Fraud Through Fake Links

Such messages are categorized as phishing scams. Scammers lure individuals into clicking on unknown links by promising government bonuses. Once on the fake website, they attempt to collect sensitive information like names, phone numbers, and banking details, which can lead to financial losses.

Advice from PIB

PIB strongly advises individuals not to click on any suspicious links or share their OTP with unknown contacts.

What to Do If You Receive This Message

If you receive a message about an ₹8,000 Diwali bonus on WhatsApp, do not trust it. Avoid clicking on any links provided and refrain from forwarding the message to others. Never share your banking information, OTP, or other personal details with unknown websites or individuals.

For accurate information regarding government schemes, rely solely on the official websites of relevant ministries and government departments. You can also verify suspicious news related to the central government through PIB's fact-check.

How to Report Suspicious Messages

If you encounter any dubious messages or claims related to the central government, you can report them to PIB fact-check through the following channels:

WhatsApp: 8799711259

Email: factcheck@pib.gov.in

In case of financial loss due to cyber fraud, immediately inform your bank and contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930.

Conclusion

The claim of an ₹8,000 bonus for every citizen during Diwali is false. The central government has made no such announcement. Therefore, avoid clicking on any suspicious links that promise bonuses.