Team Goemkarponn
New Delhi: As India prepares for the Census 2026 to 2027, authorities and experts are urging citizens to stay alert against a surge in fraud attempts exploiting the exercise. Scammers are increasingly using the name of the Census to deceive people into sharing sensitive personal and financial information through fake visits, messages, and online links.
Fraudsters may pose as census officials and visit homes under the pretext of collecting data. Others circulate misleading messages on social media, including false claims about officials conducting verification drives. While some viral alerts have been proven false, the risk of scams remains significant.
Citizens should note that genuine census enumerators do not request bank account details, card numbers, UPI PINs, or one time passwords. They also do not ask for photocopies of Aadhaar or PAN cards, demand money, or seek passwords. Any such request should immediately raise suspicion. Officials do not insist on entering homes without consent, nor do they require individuals to download apps or click on unknown links.
Scammers often operate through fake home visits, phishing websites that resemble official portals, and fraudulent calls or SMS messages. These tactics are designed to extract confidential data or money by creating a sense of urgency or authority.
The official census process remains straightforward and secure. Enumerators conduct door to door visits with valid identification and collect only general, non financial information. Citizens are encouraged to verify credentials before sharing any details and to report suspicious activity to local authorities.
For the first time, a self enumeration option is available, allowing individuals to submit their information online in multiple regional languages before an enumerator’s visit. After completing the process, users receive a unique ID that must be shared for verification.
The housing and population data collection phase will take place from April to September 2026, with an additional window provided for online submissions.
