Spot the Fake Academy

Learn the most common manipulation techniques used by scammers and bad actors to spread misinformation in India. Click the cards to reveal the lesson.

Fake Urgency

Example

"Forward this message to 10 people or your bank account will be permanently blocked in 24 hours."

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The Truth

Urgency is a common manipulation tactic. Scammers want you to panic and act quickly without taking the time to verify the facts.

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Fake Health Claims

Example

"Drink raw turmeric water mixed with garlic to cure Dengue virus instantly. A doctor from WHO verified this."

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The Truth

Medical claims require scientific evidence. Anecdotal 'miracle cures' that attack severe diseases without proper medical care are extremely dangerous.

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Authority Manipulation

Example

"RBI Official Notice – Click this link now to complete your mandatory e-KYC or face penalties."

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The Truth

Scammers frequently impersonate trusted authorities like the RBI, SBI, or government officials to steal login credentials via phishing links.

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Emotional Manipulation

Example

"Look at what they are doing to our people! Share this video to spread awareness before it's deleted!"

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The Truth

Content that makes you feel intense anger, fear, or sadness is often engineered to bypass your critical thinking and force a viral share.

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Phishing Links

Example

"Congratulations! You have won a free iPhone 15. Claim it here: http://apple-rewardz.free-win.com"

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The Truth

Always check the URL carefully. Scammers use slightly misspelled domains or free hosting sites to trick you into entering personal details.

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Out of Context Videos

Example

"Video of a recent train derailment in India (Video is actually from another country 5 years ago)"

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The Truth

Old footage is frequently recirculated during completely different modern events to frame a false narrative or spark outrage.

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The 'Secret Knowledge' Angle

Example

"The mainstream media won't show you this, but here is the truth behind the new digital currency..."

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The Truth

Conspiracy theorists hook victims by pretending to offer 'secret, suppressed' knowledge, making the recipient feel special and part of an inner circle.

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Job Fraud (Task Scams)

Example

"Earn ₹5000 daily working from home! Just click this link to register and pay a ₹500 refundable deposit."

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The Truth

Legitimate employers never ask you to pay them for the privilege of working. Upfront 'deposits' or 'processing fees' are definite scams.

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Test Your Knowledge

5 real-world scenarios. Can you identify the manipulation tactic?

Question 1 of 50 correct so far

Identify the technique:

⚠️ URGENT: Your SBI account will be BLOCKED in 24 hours! Click this link immediately to complete your mandatory e-KYC: http://sbi-kyc-update.free.nf/login