I saw a video of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das promoting a ₹21,000 government investment scheme that promises ₹15 lakh returns in a month. Is this real? Pls let me know the answer as some of my friends are interested in this scheme and want to invest in it!
No, pls don’t fall on such claims as it is completely false. The video circulating on social media is a deepfake, manipulated using AI-based facial and voice alterations. The original clips were taken from separate events i.e. Sitharaman’s News18 interview (Sept 16, 2024) and Shaktikanta Das’s Post-Monetary Policy Press Conference (Oct 9, 2024). Neither of them promoted any such investment scheme.
If you have any further queries about this topic, kindly read the complete article where PIB Fact Check debunks this news. Also, tell your friends not to fall into such short-term money-making schemes as it is always a trap for innocent people to steal their hard-earned money.
How do we know this video is fake?
A reverse image search of keyframes confirmed the video was doctored. AI detection tools like Truemedia and Hive identified altered facial features and voice cloning. Additionally, the RBI officially debunked this scam on November 19, 2024, warning citizens to be cautious of such fraudulent schemes.
If the video is fake, who is behind it?
The viral post links to a phishing website designed to mimic India Today, attempting to steal user data. Scammers often create fake government schemes to trick people into investing in fraudulent platforms.
Has the government launched any income-generating scheme like this?
No, the Indian government has not announced any scheme requiring ₹21,000 investment with ₹15 lakh returns in a month. Official schemes are only published on government websites like pmindia.gov.in, rbi.org.in, and gov.in portals.
What should I do if I come across such scams?
Do not share or engage with these posts. Report them on cybercrime.gov.in or contact RBI’s fraud helpline. If you or someone you know has fallen victim to such scams, file a complaint immediately.
If anyone has encountered similar deepfake scams or misleading government scheme claims, share your experience here to help others stay informed!