# Cyber fraud during Raksha Bandhan festival > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cyber-fraud-during-raksha-bandhan-festival > Updated: 2026-08-27T14:11:20.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. As the Raksha Bandhan festival approached, warnings emerged regarding increased cyber fraud risks associated with festive online shopping. Initial reports highlighted scammers using social media and fraudulent websites to lure consumers with promises of heavy discounts and express delivery for gifts, sweets, and rakhis. Tactics included the creation of fake websites mimicking real brands and the use of deceptive payment links or QR codes. Following these developments, cybersecurity experts and police, including the Nagpur Cyber Police, issued more specific warnings. Authorities identified the use of emotional appeals and malicious files, such as ‘Raksha Bandhan Greeting APK’ or ‘Festival Gift APK’, sent via WhatsApp or SMS to compromise mobile devices. Scammers also utilized phishing links for ‘special cashback’ or ‘free gift vouchers’ and created fraudulent sites mimicking major retailers like Amazon or Flipkart. Law enforcement advised the public to avoid unknown links, refrain from downloading suspicious files, and verify all urgent money transfer requests. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-27: Cyber police warn of Raksha Bandhan online gift scams Cyber police in India have warned of Raksha Bandhan scams involving phishing links, fake gift offers, and malicious APK files designed to steal banking information and personal data. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cyber-police-warn-of-raksha-bandhan-online-gift-scams ### 2026-08-17: Raksha Bandhan: Cyber fraud risks rise during festive online shopping With Raksha Bandhan approaching, shoppers face rising risks of cyber fraud via fake websites and social media scams. Experts advise verifying sellers and avoiding deceptive discount offers. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/raksha-bandhan-cyber-fraud-risks-rise-during-festive-online-shopping --- Cite as: Cyber fraud during Raksha Bandhan festival. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cyber-fraud-during-raksha-bandhan-festival