Last Updated: May 26, 2025
Introduction
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) provides financial assistance to deserving families in Pakistan. However, scammers often exploit this program to deceive beneficiaries. This guide will help you recognize and report fraudulent activities to protect yourself and your community.
Recognizing Common BISP Scams
Scammers use various tactics to trick beneficiaries:
- Fake Messages: Claiming you’ve won money and asking for personal information or fees.
- Unauthorized Calls: Pretending to be BISP officials and requesting CNIC numbers or other details.
- Social Media Scams: Sharing fake registration links or payment promises on platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp.
- Impersonation: Individuals posing as BISP agents demanding money for registration or payment processing.
Always be cautious and verify any communication claiming to be from BISP.
Official Communication Channels
BISP communicates with beneficiaries through official channels:
- SMS: All official messages are sent from 8171.
- Website: Visit the official portal at https://8171.bisp.gov.pk for information and updates.
- Helpline: For assistance, call the BISP helpline at 0800-26477.
Do not trust messages or calls from any other numbers or sources.
How to Verify BISP Messages
To ensure a message is genuinely from BISP:
- Check if the message is from 8171.
- Be wary of messages with poor grammar or urgent requests for personal information.
- Do not click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.
- Confirm any information by visiting the official BISP website or contacting the helpline.
Reporting Fraudulent Activities
If you encounter a scam or fraudulent activity:
- Do not respond to the message or call.
- Note down the details of the scam, including phone numbers and message content.
- Report the incident to BISP through the helpline 0800-26477 or by visiting your nearest BISP Tehsil Office.
Prompt reporting helps protect you and others from scams.
Protecting Yourself from Scams
Follow these tips to safeguard against fraudulent activities:
- Never share your CNIC number, bank details, or personal information with unknown individuals.
- Do not pay any fees for BISP registration or payment processing; all services are free.
- Be cautious of individuals claiming to expedite your application for a fee.
- Educate your family and community about common scams and how to avoid them.
Conclusion
Staying informed and vigilant is crucial to protect yourself from BISP-related scams. Always verify communications, avoid sharing personal information, and promptly report suspicious activities. By taking these steps, you contribute to a safer and more secure community for all beneficiaries.
