BISP 8171 Fraudulent SMS Awareness & Legal Countermeasures
The BISP 8171 Fraudulent SMS Awareness & Legal Countermeasures campaign has been launched to protect citizens from rising scams pretending to be part of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). As digital transactions and online verification systems grow in Pakistan, scammers are exploiting the popularity of the 8171 Ehsaas and BISP initiatives by sending fake messages to steal personal information, CNIC numbers, and even money.
This article explains how to identify fraudulent BISP messages, how to stay safe, and what legal actions the government is taking to counter these scams. If you or someone you know receives suspicious SMS messages claiming to offer BISP payments, read this guide carefully before responding.
Understanding the 8171 Fraud Issue
The 8171 number is the only official communication channel used by BISP and Ehsaas Programs for eligibility, payment updates, and CNIC verification. However, many people across Pakistan have started receiving fake SMS messages from numbers other than 8171, asking them to “confirm CNIC,” “pay a processing fee,” or “click a link to claim money.”
These messages are not from BISP. Instead, they are sent by fraudsters trying to access your personal details or trick you into transferring money.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have received hundreds of complaints about these fraudulent SMS scams in 2025 — proving the need for public awareness and strict legal action.
How Scammers Operate
Fraudulent senders usually use unregistered mobile numbers or social media platforms to appear official. Their goal is to gain the victim’s trust using the name of 8171 or BISP. Here’s how they often target people:
Sending fake SMS messages such as “Congratulations! You are selected for Rs 25,000. Send your CNIC now.”
Calling victims and pretending to be BISP officers.
Asking for personal data such as CNIC, phone number, or address.
Requesting a “small fee” to release payment.
Sending phishing links that install malware or steal banking information.
These criminals exploit people’s need for financial aid — but now, the government is stepping up with strong countermeasures.
How to Identify a Fake BISP SMS
To stay safe, always remember these key points:
Official messages only come from the number 8171.
BISP never asks for payment, registration fees, or PIN codes.
The official website is https://8171.bisp.gov.pk — never trust other links.
If a message says “Click here to claim your money,” it’s fake.
Do not share your CNIC or mobile number with anyone on WhatsApp or Facebook groups claiming to be BISP.
If you receive a suspicious message, take a screenshot and report it to the FIA Cybercrime Wing immediately.
Legal Countermeasures by the Government
To protect citizens, the Government of Pakistan has introduced new cybercrime monitoring systems and partnerships between BISP, PTA, and FIA. Here’s what’s being done:
FIA Cybercrime Unit tracks and arrests fraudsters sending fake 8171 messages.
PTA is blocking illegal SIM cards used for scams.
BISP Helpline 0800-26477 now helps victims report fraudulent communication.
New awareness campaigns are running across TV, radio, and social media to educate the public.
Additionally, under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), anyone caught impersonating government programs or stealing data through fake messages can face up to 3 years in prison and heavy fines.
How You Can Protect Yourself
Verify everything — only trust updates from the official 8171 number or BISP offices.
Never share personal data with unknown callers or SMS senders.
Do not click suspicious links sent via text or WhatsApp.
Report immediately to the FIA Cybercrime Wing (via 9911 helpline or www.fia.gov.pk).
Educate others — especially elderly or rural family members — about these scams.
Public awareness is the best defense against fraudulent schemes.
Final Thoughts
The BISP 8171 Fraudulent SMS Awareness & Legal Countermeasures campaign reminds all citizens to stay alert, protect their data, and rely only on official sources.
Scammers can only succeed when people are unaware — so spread the word, verify your information, and never trust unverified messages claiming to offer government aid.
By combining public vigilance with strong legal action, Pakistan is taking firm steps to ensure that welfare programs like BISP remain safe, transparent, and beneficial for every deserving family.
