A viral WhatsApp message claiming that ATMs across India will be closed for 2-3 days has sparked confusion among users. The government has swiftly fact-checked the claim, declaring it to be false.
ATMs To Be Closed For 2-3 Days? Government Debunks Viral WhatsApp Claim
India's Press Information Bureau (PIB) has actively fact-checked numerous viral videos and posts, debunking at least eight such claims between 10 pm on May 8 and 6:30 am on May 9.
Authorities confirmed that ATMs will continue to operate as usual and urged citizens to avoid sharing unverified messages, especially amid the current tense political climate between India and Pakistan.
The misleading message, which suggested a nationwide halt to ATM services, has the potential to cause unnecessary panic. Customers, fearing disruption, could flood bank branches, leading to overcrowding and delays. The government stressed the importance of verifying such claims directly with the banks before forwarding them.
In recent weeks, misinformation and fake news have spread rapidly, with Pakistan-based entities reportedly flooding digital platforms to manipulate narratives, especially following failed airstrikes and revelations of the Pakistan Army’s links with terrorist organizations. India's Press Information Bureau (PIB) has actively fact-checked numerous viral videos and posts, debunking at least eight such claims between 10 pm on May 8 and 6:30 am on May 9.
Tensions between India and Pakistan have been heightened since the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam last month, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. Amidst these rising tensions, the government has called for caution in sharing information online to prevent further disruption.
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