The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is one of Pakistan’s largest social welfare initiatives. For millions of low-income families, it is not just a financial grant it is a source of survival. This money helps people buy food, pay school fees, afford healthcare, and meet basic household expenses.
But alongside the benefits, many challenges exist. One of the biggest concerns is fraud and exploitation of beneficiaries. People with bad intentions often take advantage of beneficiaries who are not fully aware of official procedures. Some cheat through fake phone calls or SMS, while others demand illegal commissions at payment centers.
To protect yourself, your family, and your community, it is essential to understand how fraud works and how you can stay safe. This long-form guide explains everything: why fraud happens, the official payment process, the warning signs, and step-by-step tips to avoid scams.
Why Fraud Happens in BISP Payments
Fraud usually happens when beneficiaries do not have complete information about the payment process. Here are some common reasons:
- Low awareness: Many beneficiaries are women from rural areas who may not know how digital systems work
- Fake agents: Some people pretend to be BISP staff and misguide beneficiaries
- Illegal cuts: Shopkeepers or agents sometimes deduct “commissions” from payments
- SMS and call scams: Fraudsters send messages from random numbers or make calls, pretending to represent BISP
- Desperation for money: Families who urgently need cash are more likely to fall for fake promises
For example, many women report receiving messages like “You are eligible for a bonus payment. Send your CNIC number to claim it.” These are scams designed to steal information.
How Official BISP Payments Are Made
To avoid being cheated, you must know the official payment methods:
- Payments are made only through partner banks, authorized retailers, or digital wallets (like JazzCash and EasyPaisa in areas where digital banking is being introduced)
- Beneficiaries are notified only through SMS from 8171
- No deductions are allowed. You must receive the full payment amount
- You should always be given a receipt after collecting your money
Anything outside this system is suspicious.
Detailed Safety Tips for Beneficiaries
Here are expanded, step-by-step safety tips to help you stay safe and ensure your money reaches you in full.
Be Smart with Phone Calls and SMS
- BISP only sends messages from 8171
- If you receive a message from another number, ignore it
- If someone calls claiming to be from BISP, do not share your CNIC, OTP, or personal information
- Never believe anyone who promises you “extra payment” or “special benefits”
Example: If you get an SMS like “Congratulations, you have received Rs. 10,000. Call this number to confirm,” delete it immediately.
Keep Your CNIC Secure
Your CNIC is your identity. If it falls into the wrong hands, it can be misused.
- Carry your CNIC only when necessary, such as when collecting payments
- Never give your CNIC to a stranger or allow someone to keep it
- After biometric verification, check that the agent returns your CNIC immediately
- Do not give photocopies of your CNIC to anyone except official staff
Collect Payments from Official Centers Only
One of the most common frauds happens outside official centers.
- Always go directly to authorized banks, retailers, or BISP payment counters
- Do not trust middlemen who offer to “help” you collect money faster
- Watch the agent count your cash and ask for your receipt
- If the amount is less than your entitlement, raise your voice immediately
Example: If you are supposed to receive Rs. 13,500 but the agent gives you Rs. 12,500 and says “This is service fee,” refuse and report the matter.
Never Pay a Commission
BISP payments are free of charge. No one has the right to take even a single rupee from your money.
- Do not agree to deductions, even if the amount is small
- If you see agents charging others, encourage them to complain
- Remember: If one person pays a commission, fraudsters feel confident to cheat more people
Go with a Trusted Family Member
If you feel unsafe or are not confident handling the process, take a family member with you.
- This is especially helpful for elderly beneficiaries or women who feel uncomfortable going alone
- Fraudsters are less likely to target people in groups
- A family member can help you check the amount and keep documents safe
Stay Alert to Suspicious Behavior
Fraudsters often use tricks to confuse beneficiaries. Watch out for:
- Someone asking for your CNIC outside the center
- A stranger offering to “check your eligibility” on their mobile
- An agent refusing to provide a receipt
- Any person asking for “processing fees” or “file charges”
The moment you notice such signs, walk away.
How to Report Fraud or Problems
If you face fraud or unfair treatment, you have the right to complain. BISP provides several complaint channels:
- Call the BISP Helpline 0800-26477 (free of cost)
- Send an SMS to 8171 to check your payment status
- Visit your nearest BISP Tehsil Office to register a complaint in person
When you report fraud, you protect not just yourself but also other families in your community.
Real-Life Example of Fraud Prevention
Consider the story of a woman in Sindh who received a fake call claiming she had won a double payment. The caller asked for her CNIC and promised money in return. She remembered advice from a local awareness session: “Never share CNIC details over the phone.” Instead of cooperating, she reported the number. As a result, others in her village were also saved from being cheated.
This shows how awareness is the strongest weapon against fraud.
Community Awareness Matters
Fraud prevention is not just about individuals—it is about communities. The more people are aware, the harder it becomes for scammers to operate.
- Share these safety tips with neighbors, friends, and relatives
- Help elderly beneficiaries understand the official process
- Report fraud whenever you see it, so others don’t fall into the same trap
When communities work together, scams decrease significantly.
FAQs
How can I be sure an SMS from BISP is genuine?
Only SMS from 8171 are genuine. Ignore all others.
What should I do if an agent demands a commission?
Refuse to pay. Immediately report the person to the BISP helpline or office.
Can BISP staff ever deduct money from my grant?
No. Staff and agents are not allowed to deduct even one rupee.
What if my payment is delayed?
Check your status by sending your CNIC to 8171 or visit the Tehsil Office. Do not pay anyone to “speed up” the process.
Can I ask someone else to collect money on my behalf?
Generally, beneficiaries must collect payments themselves through biometric verification. For special cases, consult your nearest BISP office.
Conclusion
The BISP program is a blessing for poor families, but fraudsters try to exploit it for their own gain. You must protect your payment by staying alert, knowing your rights, and following official procedures.
Always remember:
- Trust only official sources
- Keep your CNIC safe
- Never pay a commission
- Report fraud immediately
By spreading awareness, you not only safeguard your own payment but also protect others in your community. The more informed beneficiaries are, the less chance fraudsters have to succeed.