Archive · 18 Sep 2026
Kerala Police Warn Against Scratch Card E-Commerce Scams
Kerala Police warned people about a fake prize scam.
Scammers mail scratch cards that look like they come from online shopping companies.
The cards tell people they have won a large amount of money.
The scammers then ask for money before the prize can be given.
They may say the payment is for taxes, paperwork or processing.
They also send fake documents and seals through WhatsApp.
After receiving money, the scammers stop answering calls.
People should never send money or private banking details to claim an unexpected prize.
Fraudsters are mailing attractive scratch cards in registered letters using the names of popular online shopping platforms.
Recipients are falsely told they have won large cash prizes and are directed to helpline or WhatsApp numbers.
Scammers demand advance payments for processing, documentation, income tax and other supposed expenses.
Forged tax documents and official-looking seals are sent through WhatsApp to make the scheme appear genuine.
Police advised people not to share personal or banking details and to report losses to 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
- Who
- Kerala Police warned the public about fraudsters impersonating representatives of popular online shopping platforms.
- What
- Fraudsters are using fake gift letters and scratch cards to demand advance payments from people for nonexistent prizes.
- When
- The warning was reported on Thursday, September 18; the year was not specified.
- Where
- The warning applies in Kerala; the report was datelined Thiruvananthapuram.
- Why
- The scammers seek to obtain money and potentially personal or banking information by promising fake prize winnings.
- Scam method
- Registered letters containing attractive scratch cards are sent in the names of online shopping platforms.
- False promise
- Recipients are told they have won a large sum of money.
- Requested payments
- Scammers demand advance fees for processing, documentation, income tax and other expenses.
- Deception tactics
- Forged income tax documents and official-looking seals are sent through WhatsApp.
- Warning sign
- Any request for advance payment linked to a scratch card or gift offer indicates possible fraud.
- Reporting helpline
- Victims should immediately call the cyber helpline 1930 or use the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.