24th September 2025, Kathmandu
Laxmi Sunrise Bank has issued an urgent public alert, warning its customers and the general public about a sophisticated new online scam.
Laxmi Sunrise’s Fraud Alert
The fraudulent messages, which are circulating widely on social media platforms like WhatsApp and Viber, falsely claim to offer a “New Prime Minister’s NPR 30,000 Appreciation Fund” to Nepali citizens. The bank has clarified that these messages are fake and are part of a phishing scheme designed to steal personal and financial information. This type of scam is becoming increasingly common and sophisticated in Nepal, targeting individuals who may be less familiar with online security. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of the Nepal Police has previously warned against similar online lottery and gift scams that aim to steal money and personal data.
How the Scam Operates
The scam messages are carefully crafted to appear enticing and legitimate. They instruct the recipient to click on a link and answer a few simple questions to claim a quick cash reward, such as NPR 3,000 or NPR 30,000. While the promises are tempting, clicking the malicious link can lead to serious consequences. Once a user clicks the link, they risk:
- Compromising Personal Data: The scam can expose sensitive information, including social media passwords and private data.
- Hacking Financial Accounts: The links are designed to steal mobile and internet banking credentials, which can lead to unauthorized transactions and financial loss.
- Infecting Devices: The link may install malicious software on the user’s device. This malware can track keystrokes, steal financial details, and collect other confidential information without the user’s knowledge.
This form of cybercrime, known as phishing, relies on social engineering to trick individuals into giving up their sensitive information. The scammers often create a false sense of urgency or an offer that seems “too good to be true” to bypass a user’s skepticism. The recent increase in such fraud highlights the need for a heightened sense of vigilance in the digital space.
Essential Safety Measures from Laxmi Sunrise Bank
To combat this fraud, Laxmi Sunrise Bank has issued a clear set of safety guidelines for its customers and the general public. Adhering to these steps is crucial for protecting one’s digital identity and financial assets.
Do Not Click Suspicious Links: The most important rule is to never open links from unknown or even familiar contacts if the message seems unusual, unexpected, or promises free money. Legitimate financial institutions and government bodies will never request confidential information or distribute funds through random links.
Delete Fraudulent Messages: If you receive a message that you suspect is a scam, delete it immediately to prevent accidental clicks. It is also important to block the sender’s number to avoid future attempts.
Stay Informed and Share Awareness: Educate friends and family members, especially those who may be less familiar with online security. Sharing information about these scams is a collective defense against cybercrime.
Protect Your Accounts: Always use strong, unique passwords for your banking and social media accounts. Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a critical extra layer of security, as it requires a second form of verification to log in, even if your password has been compromised. Regularly monitoring account statements is also a vital practice to catch any unauthorized transactions early.
Reporting and Conclusion
Laxmi Sunrise Bank has established a clear process for reporting any suspicious activity. If you believe you have interacted with such a scam or notice any unusual transactions in your account, it is imperative to contact the bank’s Customer Care Centre immediately at 01-4970684 or 4217070. You can also report the incident by emailing cx@laxmisunrise.com or by visiting the bank’s official website for verified information.
The bank’s message is a strong reminder that your awareness is the strongest shield against cyber threats. In an increasingly digital world, the responsibility of online safety is a shared one. By remaining vigilant, refusing to engage with suspicious messages, and educating others, every individual can help stop the spread of these sophisticated cybercrimes and protect themselves from financial loss. The Central Investigation Bureau and the Nepal Police have also been actively investigating such cases, urging the public to file complaints with nearby police stations or the Cyber Bureau in case of victimization.
For More: Laxmi Sunrise’s Fraud Alert