The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has warned citizens against a fraudulent online message claiming that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is offering a cash reward of Rs. 13,000 to Pakistanis on the occasion of Iqbal Day.
The misleading message has been circulating on social media, attracting attention by promising financial assistance to people celebrating the national occasion on November 9. Recipients are encouraged to click on an attached link to claim the supposed cash reward.
However, the announcement is fake, and the NCCIA has cautioned the public against believing or sharing the misleading information. The agency has described the Rs. 13,000 Iqbal Day cash reward claim as fraudulent.
The scam appears to use the name of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the significance of Iqbal Day to make the offer appear genuine. By presenting the message as an official government initiative, those behind the fraudulent campaign may attempt to convince unsuspecting users to visit the provided link.
Such online schemes often exploit public interest in government announcements, financial assistance programmes and special occasions. Fraudsters may use attractive cash offers to encourage people to share personal information or interact with suspicious websites.
The NCCIA’s warning highlights the importance of verifying financial announcements before responding to messages received through social media platforms, WhatsApp or other online channels.
Citizens are advised not to click on suspicious links claiming to provide the Rs. 13,000 reward. They should also avoid entering sensitive personal details, banking information, passwords or verification codes on websites that have not been confirmed as official.
Online fraud attempts can expose users to different risks, including identity theft, financial losses and unauthorised access to personal accounts. Even a message that appears to carry an official government announcement should be treated cautiously if it directs users to an unfamiliar website.
People should rely on verified government websites and official social media accounts when checking information about financial assistance, public welfare schemes and special cash incentives. Any announcement involving direct payments should be confirmed through reliable government channels before taking action.
Iqbal Day is observed in Pakistan on November 9 to commemorate the birth anniversary of national poet and philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal. The occasion attracts widespread public attention, making it important for citizens to distinguish genuine national announcements from misleading online campaigns.
The NCCIA’s warning serves as a reminder that fraudulent messages can use popular national events and the names of prominent public officials to gain credibility.
Pakistanis are encouraged to remain alert, avoid forwarding unverified offers and report suspected cybercrime through appropriate official channels. The Rs. 13,000 Iqbal Day reward message should not be considered a legitimate government payment offer.
As online scams continue to circulate through digital platforms, public awareness and careful verification remain essential to protecting personal information and financial security.