A fake online Eidi scheme circulating under the name of Maryam Nawaz has been uncovered, targeting citizens ahead of Eid ul-Fitr.
The scam, widely shared on social media and WhatsApp, falsely claims that residents over the age of 12 are eligible to receive Rs5,000 via Easypaisa or JazzCash. Cybersecurity experts and investigators have confirmed that the so-called Maryam Nawaz Eidi Scheme is entirely fake.
Fraudsters are using a deceptive website — govtpunjab.com.pk — made to appear like an official government portal. In reality, it is a private domain with no affiliation to the Punjab government. The site asks users to provide sensitive information, including CNIC numbers, mobile numbers, and digital wallet credentials, putting citizens at risk of identity theft and financial fraud.
Experts also discovered links on the site to gambling apps, indicating that the scam is primarily designed to generate revenue through referrals while stealing personal data.
Officials have clarified that no such Eidi initiative has been launched by Maryam Nawaz or any credible institution. “All official government initiatives are hosted on verified domains like punjab.gov.pk, and citizens’ personal information is never collected through private websites,” authorities stated.
Security analysts warned that falling victim to the scam could lead to losses from mobile wallets, SIM-swap fraud, or misuse of personal identity for illegal purposes.
Authorities urged the public to avoid clicking on unverified links shared through WhatsApp, Facebook, or other social media channels. Citizens are advised to always verify official government portals and never share sensitive information, including CNIC numbers or banking PINs, with unknown sources.
With Eid ul-Fitr approaching, officials emphasized the importance of vigilance to protect personal data and avoid scams exploiting the names of public figures for fraud.
