Cyber fraudsters exploit SIR revision drive to target voters across States

Cyber fraudsters are sending fake SIR voter verification messages asking people to click links and share OTPs or fees. Telangana officials clarified that SIR is not happening in the State and warned citizens to ignore such messages and protect their data.

Hyderabad: With the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) underway across 12 States and Union Territories, the cyber fraudsters are trying to make use of the ‘important exercise in electoral process’ to steal confidential information and money.

An advisory was issued by the police in different States in the country where the SIR exercise is underway after the citizens complained of receiving text messages and emails.

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The message typically warns the voter that their name will be deleted from the voter list and they are asked to fill out a form using a link provided. Afterwards, the scammers ask for a one-time password or a processing fee.

“At no cost, any individual should not click on a link received from unverified sources. The scammers steal confidential data and money after taking over control of the phone or computer,” said an official of Telangana Cyber Security Bureau.

However, no case was reported in the bureau in the State so far. Officials cautioned that the SIR exercise is not underway in Telangana and people should remember it. However, the regular Special Summary Revision (SSR) conducted annually is in progress. In the SSR, door-to-door visits are conducted. The final electoral rolls for these States are expected to be released in January 2026.

“If the voters have any doubts, they can contact the Booth Level Officer (BLO) or the local GHMC official concerned. Believing the online messages or emails from unverified sources means loss of confidential data and financial loss,” the official explained.

The police also reiterated that the SIR or SSR process is free of charge and that the Election Commission of India does not seek OTPs, Aadhaar, PAN, bank details or any personal information through calls or messages.

The police advised the citizens to verify secure URLs and maintain caution while using cyber cafes by clearing browser history, cache, and avoiding auto-save options.