NEW DELHI: If you are an avid
WhatsApp user with a penchant for
Adidas shoes: Beware! The messaging platform is under the radar of cyber criminals, who are trying to extract personal details of its users with the lure of
free Adidas shoes
. A message which is circulating across the Facebook-owned messaging app's platform says that users can get a free pair of shoes from an international brand (Adidas) as the company is distributing many freebies on account of its anniversary. The message has been circulating in India, along with other parts of the globe.
This is nothing but a trap to lure the users to share their personal details on the platform. The message reads: "Adidas is giving away 3,000 Free Pair of Shoes to celebrate its 93rd anniversary. Get your free shoes at:..." There is a URL that's sent with the message which only at second glance most people would realise is not the real Adidas website's.
Experts have warned unsuspecting users about the scam and cautioned against sharing personal details. The malicious message has already duped thousands, according to reports.
Read this story in BengaliAdidas has confirmed that the message is a hoax. "We are aware of the WhatsApp message that is currently circulating claiming that Adidas is giving away free footwear and would like to caution the public about believing this, as it is definitely a hoax", Lauren Haakman, Brand Communications and PR Manager of Adidas South Africa, was quoted in a UK tabloid.
Read Also | How online scams happen and how to avoid them This comes days after Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had issued a notice cautioning the citizens about the fake websites created with a layout similar to the central bank's official website.
Read Also | Beware: Fake RBI website stealing bank detailsThe fake website asks for the customer's banking ID, PIN, email address, phone number, bank name among others details.
(With IANS inputs)
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