Indian Post Payments Bank (IPPB) account holders are being warned of a new phishing scam exploiting the updated PAN Card rules introduced by the Central Government. Cybercriminals are sending fraudulent messages to users, falsely claiming that their bank accounts will be frozen if PAN Card details are not updated.

These messages often contain links that direct users to malicious websites, designed to steal personal and financial information. The fear of losing access to their bank accounts has led many individuals to fall prey to these scams.

How the scam works

The scammers use the recent PAN Card 2.0 update as a pretext to trick individuals. They send alarming messages suggesting account freezing due to non-compliance with PAN updates, prompting users to click on phishing links. By doing so, cybercriminals gain unauthorized access to sensitive financial data.

IPPB’s guidance to stay safe

Indian Post Payments Bank has issued a set of recommendations to help customers protect themselves from such fraudulent activities. The bank urges account holders to follow these secure digital banking practices:

• Regularly update passwords for better account security.
• Avoid calling fake customer care numbers or sharing personal details.
• Monitor account activities regularly for any unauthorized transactions.
• Stay cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks.
• Verify the authenticity of all banking-related communications.

Essential scam prevention tips

To further protect against such scams, experts recommend the following precautions:

1. Be wary of suspicious emails and messages: Avoid opening unknown attachments or clicking unfamiliar links, as scammers often disguise malicious content in these.
2. Check for signs of fraud: Look for typographical errors, grammatical mistakes, or unrealistic offers in messages that could indicate a phishing attempt.
3. Avoid password-protected files from unknown sources: Such files may contain hidden viruses that can compromise your device and steal sensitive information.
4. Strengthen account security: Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts and store them securely in a password manager.
5. Verify sources: Always ensure the authenticity of customer care numbers and banking communications before responding or sharing personal information.

The bigger picture

Scammers are exploiting the lack of awareness about recent financial regulations to target unsuspecting individuals. With increasing reliance on digital banking, customers must stay vigilant and informed to protect their assets.

If you receive any suspicious messages regarding PAN updates or account freezes, immediately report them to your bank and avoid clicking on any associated links.

A special court in Pune granted bail to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on January 10 in a defamation case concerning his alleged derogatory remarks about Hindutva ideologue V. D. Savarkar.

The MP/MLA court released Gandhi, who appeared via video conferencing, on a surety bond of ₹25,000. Senior Congress leader Mohan Joshi served as surety, and Advocate Milind Pawar, representing Gandhi, noted that the court has granted him a permanent exemption from further appearances. The case is scheduled for a hearing on February 18.

The defamation case was initiated by Savarkar’s grandnephew and relates to a speech Gandhi delivered in London in March 2023, where he referenced the freedom fighter using a book authored by Savarkar. In the speech, Gandhi sought to draw parallels between tribal leader Birsa Munda and Savarkar, stating that Munda remained resolute in his ideals.

“He [Munda] never backed down and was ultimately martyred. He represents your [tribal] identity. In contrast, the symbol of the BJP-RSS is Savarkar, who was imprisoned in Andaman for a few years and wrote mercy petitions,” Gandhi claimed.

Gandhi further alleged that Savarkar authored a book under a pseudonym to portray himself as courageous, adding that he accepted pensions from the British and acted against the Congress. He emphasized that tribals are the “original owners” of India and deserve priority in rights.

According to Gandhi, the RSS and BJP are attacking the fundamental ideals of Birsa Munda. He accused the BJP of undermining the Constitution and denying rights to Dalits, adivasis, and marginalized communities.

While Congress refers to them as ‘adivasis,’ Gandhi argued that the BJP-RSS coalition has rebranded them as ‘vanvasis’ (forest dwellers) to dismiss their historical claim to the land. “This is a serious matter, as it jeopardizes the very legacy that Birsa Munda fought for,” he asserted, highlighting the dangers of deforestation and diminishing rights.

He noted that the Congress believes firmly in providing adivasis with their rightful entitlements, including land, healthcare, and education, all protected by the Constitution framed by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. Gandhi criticized the BJP for its reluctance to acknowledge the need for a Constitution during its early days.

Gandhi further accused the ruling party of dismantling public sector companies and privatizing essential services such as education and healthcare, stating, “If government schools close, disadvantaged individuals will remain uneducated, ultimately benefitting the BJP. They are effectively closing all pathways to employment, education, and healthcare.”

He underscored the role of the Congress in passing key legislation like the Forest Rights Act and accused the BJP of attempting to undermine tribal rights. “Only the Congress can safeguard the Constitution and advocate for the rights of tribals. The party must unite and strengthen its fight against political adversaries,” Gandhi had said.

A speeding truck collided with a school bus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, resulting in the death of one student and injuries to more than two dozen others.

The incident occurred on Thursday morning at the Bhouri Bypass, located on the outskirts of the state capital.

The bus was transporting students from a private school who were returning from a visit to the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER). Reports indicate that the bus was traveling at a normal speed when the truck, allegedly moving at high speed, struck it from behind.

The collision caused substantial damage to the rear of the bus, causing many students to be thrown from their seats and sustain injuries. Passersby and local residents quickly rushed to assist, helping the injured students while emergency services were contacted.

“A total of nine children have been taken to various hospitals. The students were traveling in the bus when the speeding truck, attempting to overtake, crashed into it from behind. Those seated at the back of the bus suffered injuries.

Two children have sustained serious injuries, and updates regarding their condition will be provided by the hospitals,” a police official stated.

A video from the accident scene showed the mangled bus and students sitting on a nearby field as locals worked to assist in the rescue efforts.

Eyewitnesses said that the truck driver was driving recklessly and failed to regain control of the vehicle, leading to the crash. Authorities have opened an investigation into the incident to uncover more details and hold those responsible accountable.