Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre Restricted

Date 22 December, 2020

Cyber Crime Information -101

To: All members

From: cyberdost@mha.gov.in
Subject: COVID-19 Vaccine Related cyber frauds

Sir/Madam,

Summary

COVID-19 vaccine is planned to be released in phased manner by Government. Fraudster

may use this opportunity to defraud people through various modes and means like providing
priority/early access, fake apps, fake websites/SMS links etc.

Modus Operandi:

1. Fraudsters may call citizens or send SMS, impersonating as government authorized

distributors and ask them to submit documents/money for getting priority access to
vaccine dose.
2. Fake Portals offering cashback/discounts, accepting online payments to book
appointment or home delivery of vaccines may be created by fraudsters.
3. Fraudsters may also use dark web as a platform to sell fake remedies/vaccines or
medicines.
4. Social media and search engine digital advertisement may also be created by fraudster
to lure victims.
5. Miscreants may also spread fake videos/news pertaining to side effects of COVID-19
vaccine over social media or chat messengers to create social unrest.

Suggestions:

1. Avail Vaccine related facility/service/Information from official government website and

mobile apps. Typically government websites will have “.gov.in” domain.
2. Be vigilant if you get calls from unknown callers promising early vaccine access or
delivery. Never perform any financial transaction upon request by unknown caller as it
may be an attempt to get your personal details or to defraud you.
3. Avoid clicking on links of website sent through SMS or install apps related to COVID-
19 vaccine.
4. Thumbnails in digital advertisement on OTT platforms and social media may be
misleading. Check for the publisher/source of digital advertisement mentioned at the
bottom of thumbnail.
5. Verify the genuineness source of news/post related to COVID-19 vaccine harmful
effects.

Regards

Threat Analytical Unit (TAU)

Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre
CIS Division, MHA
011-23093697
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