Amid rising digital adoption, authorities in India are alerting users about a fast-growing online fraud involving fake OTT subscription offers priced at just ₹299.
Cybersecurity experts have confirmed that these deals, which claim to provide premium access to platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, JioHotstar, ZEE5, and Sony LIV, are completely fake and designed to steal money and sensitive personal data.
Reports suggest that scammers are creating fake groups and channels on WhatsApp and Telegram to promote “OTT combo packs” at extremely low prices. These offers bundle multiple services at rates far below market value, making them attractive to users.
Once a person shows interest, fraudsters begin collecting personal details such as mobile numbers, email IDs, UPI details, and even banking information under the pretext of activating the subscription. Victims are then sent QR codes or payment links that appear genuine but redirect funds to fraudulent accounts.
Experts say victims usually face 3 outcomes: no subscription is activated, scammers disappear, or stolen data is reused for future fraud and phishing attacks. In many cases, users are further pressured to pay extra charges like “activation fee,” “security deposit,” or “verification charges,” increasing financial losses.
Officials have clarified that genuine OTT platforms only offer subscriptions through their official apps and verified websites. Any third-party bundled offer at such low prices should be treated as suspicious.
Users are advised not to click on unknown links or share sensitive information like OTPs, UPI PINs, or banking details. In case of fraud, immediate steps should include contacting the bank, blocking transactions, disabling UPI if needed, and changing passwords. Complaints can also be filed on cybercrime.gov.in.
Experts warn that India’s growing digital payment ecosystem has increased exposure to such scams. These frauds rely heavily on attractive deals and psychological pressure to push users into quick payments.
The Future Crime Research Foundation noted that such scams are becoming more advanced, using social engineering and fake interfaces. Cyber expert Triveni Singh said, “these criminals exploit human psychology and greed more than technology, which is why awareness remains the strongest safeguard against such frauds.”
Authorities have reiterated that no genuine OTT platform offers multi-service premium access at ₹299, urging users to rely only on official sources.
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