Why Fake “Government Subsidy” Ads Fool Citizens

Every few weeks, a new wave of social media posts claims that the government is offering subsidies for farmers, women entrepreneurs, or small business owners. These ads often look official, use national symbols, and promise quick money through a simple registration link. But in reality, many of these so-called subsidy schemes are scams designed to steal personal details or collect small payments under the guise of “processing fees.”

The problem starts with how believable these posts appear. Scammers use official-sounding names, the Prime Minister’s image, or phrases like “Central Government Yojana 2025” to make their ads look authentic. They circulate these messages widely on Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, especially targeting users in Tier 2 and rural regions where awareness of digital fraud is still growing.

Once a person clicks on the link, the scam unfolds quickly. Victims are asked to fill forms with Aadhaar details, bank account numbers, or even upload ID proofs. Some sites demand a small “registration charge” of Rs 50–500 to release the subsidy. After payment, the website either crashes or shows a fake confirmation page, leaving the user with nothing but a compromised identity.

These scams work because they exploit two powerful emotions — trust and hope. People genuinely believe the government might offer new benefits, especially after seeing similar real schemes in the news. And when the offer looks easy, it feels too convenient to question.

In many Tier 2 cities, where online ads are becoming a key source of information, this trend is especially dangerous. Fraudsters specifically target these users because they are active online but may not verify every link or notice small signs of fraud.

The takeaway is simple: the government never announces subsidies through random social media ads or links. Always verify through official portals or trusted news sources before sharing personal or payment information. What looks like a chance to save money could end up costing your identity — and your peace of mind.