If you’ve recently received a suspicious SMS claiming to be from 8171, you are not alone. The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has officially warned citizens of a growing number of fake messages being sent to innocent people under the guise of 8171 alerts.
This article is your complete guide to spotting fake SMS, what real 8171 messages look like, and how to protect yourself from scams in July 2025.
❗ What Is Happening?
As the BISP 8171 July 2025 payments are being released, scammers have started sending fake messages such as:
-
“Congratulations! You have won Rs. 25,000 from BISP. Send your details now.”
-
“Your 8171 payment has been stopped. Call this number immediately!”
-
“Aapka PMT score 25 hai. Rs. 50,000 milne wale hain. Form bharein.”
These messages do not come from the real 8171 system and are part of a wider fraud scheme.
🛑 Official Statement by BISP (July 2025)
“BISP never asks beneficiaries to call or send personal details via SMS or WhatsApp. All real communication is done through the official 8171 portal or verified SMS system.”
– BISP Media Office, July 2025
🧐 How to Identify a Fake 8171 SMS
| 🔍 Checkpoint | ✅ Real 8171 | ❌ Fake Message |
|---|---|---|
| Sender | Always shows as 8171 | Often from random mobile numbers (03xx, +92xx) |
| Tone | Formal, neutral | Too excited or aggressive |
| Content | Simple info like payment amount or eligibility | Asks for money, CNIC, photos, or contact back |
| Links | Never shares clickable URLs | Often includes shady links or numbers |
| Personal Info Request | Never requested | Frequently asks for CNIC, address, or money |
📱 Examples of Fake SMS (July 2025)
These are fraud messages. Do NOT reply or click.
✅ What Does a Real 8171 SMS Look Like?
➡️ Real 8171 messages:
-
Come from exact code 8171
-
Never ask for your personal data
-
Only inform you of eligibility, payment release, or survey reminders
📢 Important Advice from BISP & PTA
✔ Never call back or send details to unknown numbers
✔ Don’t share CNIC, family info, or bank details on WhatsApp/SMS
✔ Report scam numbers to PTA via SMS 9000
✔ Use the official site only: https://8171.bisp.gov.pk
✔ If in doubt, visit your nearest BISP Tehsil Office
🧾 How to Report Fake 8171 Messages
If you receive a fake message, here’s how to report it:
-
Take a screenshot
-
Note the scammer’s phone number
-
Forward the message to PTA at 9000 or
-
Report it to BISP via their helpline: 0800-26477
-
You can also file a report with Cyber Crime Wing – FIA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can scammers access my BISP payment?
No — unless you share your CNIC number, thumbprint, or OTP (one-time password), they cannot access or block your payment.
❓ What if I already replied to a fake message?
-
Immediately call BISP helpline and inform them
-
Change your mobile number if needed
-
Visit a BISP center to verify your status and check for any misuse
❓ Do scammers also send voice calls or WhatsApp messages?
Yes. Many scammers are now using WhatsApp calls or audio messages pretending to be from BISP agents. Do not engage with these.
❓ How can I block fake SMS?
-
Use built-in spam filters on your smartphone
-
Block the number
-
Report it to PTA using SMS 9000
🚫 Stay Safe – Final Thoughts
As BISP 8171 July 2025 payments continue, scammers are targeting the most vulnerable people with fake SMS and calls. Always remember:
-
📲 Real BISP SMS only comes from 8171
-
❌ Never share your personal details
-
🛡️ Report fake numbers immediately
🔐 Your safety comes first. Trust only official channels.