Cyber Crime
Hyderabad Police Warn of Cyber Fraud Linked to Indiramma Towers Scheme
Hyderabad, July 27, 2026: Hyderabad City Police have cautioned citizens to remain vigilant against cybercriminals attempting to exploit applicants under the government’s Indiramma Towers housing scheme. The warning comes as beneficiaries begin paying the ₹10,000 Earnest Money Deposit (EMD), a stage that authorities believe could become a target for online fraudsters using fake communications and deceptive payment requests.
Police Warn Against Fraudulent House Allotment Claims
Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar said the housing allotment process is conducted through an official and transparent system, leaving no scope for brokers, agents, or middlemen. He advised applicants to ignore anyone claiming they can secure a house allotment in exchange for money or special favors.
Officials also warned that scammers may attempt to pressure beneficiaries by sending messages alleging that immediate payments are required to avoid cancellation of their applications. Such tactics are commonly used to create panic and trick victims into transferring funds without verifying the authenticity of the request.
The Commissioner clarified that the ₹10,000 Earnest Money Deposit remains protected throughout the process. Applicants who are not allotted a house will receive a refund directly into the same bank account used to make the payment.
Fake Websites and Malicious Apps Pose Major Threat
The advisory highlights the growing risk of cybercriminals distributing fraudulent links through WhatsApp messages, SMS, and other digital platforms. Beneficiaries have been urged not to open unknown links or install APK files from unofficial sources, as these may compromise mobile devices and expose sensitive banking information.
Police also cautioned that fraudsters may create counterfeit websites designed to closely resemble official government portals. In addition, victims could be persuaded to download screen-sharing applications such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer, enabling criminals to gain unauthorized access to personal information and online banking sessions.
Authorities emphasized that a UPI PIN is required only when making a payment and should never be shared to receive a refund. Citizens have also been advised not to disclose Aadhaar details, bank account information, one-time passwords (OTPs), or other confidential credentials to unknown individuals.
Official Helpline Available for Verification
To help applicants verify information related to the Indiramma Towers scheme, the government has established a dedicated helpline at 040-24603572. Police urged beneficiaries to rely only on official communication channels before making payments or responding to requests for personal information.
Anyone who suspects cyber fraud or falls victim to an online scam has been advised to immediately contact the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Prompt reporting can improve the chances of freezing fraudulent transactions and minimizing financial losses.
Authorities continue to encourage the public to stay alert and verify every communication related to government welfare schemes to avoid becoming targets of cyber fraud.