Banking News – Nepal Police has urged the general public to remain cautious against cyber scams that may occur through social media and digital platforms in the name of disaster relief and assistance.

Following the sudden flood in the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa, which caused massive loss of life and property in various districts, rescue and relief operations are ongoing. Police have advised citizens to be cautious as some individuals may exploit this sensitive situation to collect money and commit fraud in the name of relief.

According to police, there is a risk of fraud through means such as demanding money in personal bank accounts or e-wallets using the names “Prime Minister’s Natural Disaster Relief Fund” or “Prime Minister’s Relief Fund”, and circulating fake QR codes on social media by copying the logo, name, or format of official bodies.

Similarly, police have urged caution against activities such as operating fake pages and groups on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and Viber in the name of “relief funds” or “aid campaigns,” calling to “register for relief assistance” to demand personal and banking details, and sending phishing links to steal OTPs and passwords. Police have also requested that before sending money, the identity of the concerned person must be verified, as incidents may occur where unknown numbers ask for financial help claiming “I am safe, please send me money.”

Police have urged that before sending any donation, the account details of the relevant fund should be verified only from the official website or certified social media page of the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers. Police have also warned not to immediately trust QR codes, links, or account numbers received from unknown individuals or pages, and not to share bank account numbers, card details, PINs, or OTPs if requested over phone or message.

Police have specifically requested that if an unknown person asks for donation money, their identity should be verified through video call or direct phone before sending money. If there is suspicion that an individual or group is scamming or attempting to scam in the name of disaster relief, police have urged contacting the nearest police office or Cyber Bureau immediately.