Beware! SMSes offering gold coin, cash are phony

If you get an SMS offering mouth-watering deals such as gold coins and hefty returns on cash investments, think twice before pouncing on the bait

If you get an SMS offering mouth-watering deals such as gold coins and hefty returns on cash investments, think twice before pouncing on the bait.
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For a gang is on the prowl trying to dupe gullible customers by sending such phony text messages in the name of a leading insurance company.

The incident came to light when several clients approached the staff of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance enquiring about the offers made to them. However, these clients were in for a rude shock, when they learnt that the firm never sent any text messages making any offers.

"Even though the company clarified that it was a prank SMS, enquiry calls kept pouring in. It has been over a month now, but the ill-designed SMS campaign continues unabated," said Anajana Murthy, the chief divisional manager, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance.

The company examined the SMSes and found that the message offered gold coins, mobile phones and huge monetary returns for getting a new policy.

"The message also mentioned a contact number to get in touch with, if anyone is interested in the scheme," said Murthy. "This is not only amount to misuse of brand, but also amounts to cheating and fraud."

Following the revelation, officials from Bajaj Allianz filed a complaint with the Ashok Nagar police on Saturday.
The police suspect that the SMS campaign could be the handiwork of former employees of the insurance firm with a motive to defame the company.

"We are investigating whether the accused have managed to dupe people financially or otherwise," said a police officer on condition of anonymity.

Message Menace
Plan your future, child education, marriage, retirement, insurance Rs 2,000 PM with Bajaj Allianz money back plan and get up to 12 lacs in 20 years. SMS bajaj to 917644610. The message was sent from mobile number 9498022114.

Deposit 5000/year for 5 years get gold coin or cell phone. For Rs 50,000 in five yearsu00a0 an assured sum of Rs 1 lac. Save tax call 7254246669.

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