Introduction
Fraudsters targeting BISP draw more beneficiaries in 2025 KARACHI: Fraudsters are finding new ways to con people and while their predecessors targetted from the wealthy, they now set their sights on Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) recipients. From fraudulent SMS messages to unverified sellers, bad actors are preying on the unsuspecting to take people’s money. If you benefit from the BISP, gaining information on authentic payment points can save you from losing payments you are supposed to get.
This guide will teach you how to differentiate between real and fake BISP agents, and how to claim your 8171 Kafalat and Taleemi Wazaif Money without the fear of being cheated.
Why This Matters
BISP operates in nearly every corner of Pakistan, affecting millions of people, and consequently is a prime target of fraud. Scammers will frequently employ methods like:
Fake SMS’s sent with a spoof number like 8171
Running an illegal and counterfeit payment centre
Illegal service fees or an attempt to steal biometric data
To keep your payments safe, it’s vital to understand how to identify legitimate retailers and scammers.
How can one recognize the Genuine name of BISP shop?
To stay away from frauds, make sure to give a look at the following steps to confirm an authorized BISP retailer:
Look for Official Identification
BISP-Compliant Signage: A visible BISP-compliant sign (banner/ poster) has to be displayed at retailer outlet.
Retailer ID Card: Whenever you can see the ID card of the retailer concerned.
POS Terminal: Their transaction terminal must be registered with BISP and connected to providers similar to:
JazzCash
HBL Konnect
Bank Alfalah
Biometric Verification Only
Do not receive any payment unless is biometrically scanned.
Make sure you can see your CNIC information on the screen before you thumbprint.
Only agree to the transaction when the salesperson has approved your purchase and verified the amount and your identity.
Use the 8171 Portal or SMS
Send the CNIC number2399 by SMS to 8171 to check and validate your payment. This is the sole official method when you do it for verification of payment.
BISP Scams and How You Can Stay Away
Fake SMS Messages
REMEMBER: Normal messages will always originate from short code 8171.
Scam messages may come from suspect numbers like “800171” or random cell numbers.
Red flags include:
Misspelled words
Unbelievable payment promises
Requests for personal information
Tip: If you receive an SMS offering money, do not respond unless it originates from the official 8171 number.
Unauthorized Agents
Some scammers even open fake stalls, or impersonate themselves as BISP agents.
These scammers may:
Demand extra fees
Keep a part of your payment
Ask for your ATM PIN or biometrics without you completing the transaction
Tip: In case of any doubt about any agent – go to your nearest BISP office or call BISP’s official helpline at 0800-26477.
Genuine Payment Process
To receive your BISP payment safely make sure to follow these steps:
You should get an SMS confirmation from 8171 about your payments.
Go to an Authorized Payment Center in your area.
Provide Your Original CNIC.
Full biometric scanning with your thumbprint.
Not one penny should be deducted from your pay.
Request a hard copy for your records.
Important: Report any agent who attempts to charge you a service fee or who delays your payment.
If You Think You’re Being Scammed our guide What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
If you believe you have been contacted by a scammer or have engaged with a fraudulent retailer, do the following:
Dial BISP Helpline at 0800-26477.
Go to the nearest BISP Tehsil office to get help.
3: Report the fake SMS to PTA.
Lodge a complaint on FIA Cyber Crime Portal.
FAQs
How can I confirm that a BISP retailer is genuine?
Request to see the stores official ID card and look for banners that show association with JazzCash, HBL, or Bank Alfalah. You can also call the BISP helpline to verify.
Is there any message that says “8171” that I can trust?
Only trust those messages from short code 8171. Dismiss texts from complete numbers or unfamiliar senders.
But what do you do if the agent wants a fee?
BISP payments are 100% free. No service fee should be requested. Report it immediately.
A scammer took my CNIC from me. What should I do?
Lodge a complaint at BISP, Cyber Crime and block your SIM (if required).
Curtain Raiser – Knowledge Is The Only KeySharedPointer93Words of Wisdom – Inform And Protect Yourselves.
The Benazir Income Support Programme is a vital lifeline for millions, and scammers are (re?) seeing if they can’t capitalize on that trust. Here’s what you can do to ensure that you are protecting your payments and your identity by learning to determine legitimate retailers and pay vendors strategically by reading your SMS message with care and using the right channels. Send this guide to your friends and family to keep them safe too.
