The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is a lifeline for millions of low-income families across Pakistan. Whether it’s the Kafalat stipend or the Taleemi Wazaif for your children’s education, every rupee counts. But sadly, with the rise in beneficiaries, scammers are also increasing their tricks in 2025.
From fake text messages to unauthorized agents charging hidden fees, many families are falling victim to fraud. If you’re receiving help through BISP, it’s more important than ever to know who to trust and how to avoid being scammed.
Here’s a simple guide to help you collect your payments safely and spot the signs of a scam.
How to Know If a Retailer Is Official
Before you hand over your CNIC or give a thumbprint, take a moment to check if the agent or shop is truly authorized. Here’s how:
🏷️ Check for BISP Branding
Real BISP payment centers usually display banners or posters with the official BISP logo. Don’t see one? Ask questions.
🪪 Ask for Retailer ID
Every authorized BISP retailer is issued an official ID card. It should include the name of the retailer, their BISP registration, and the logo of their payment partner (like JazzCash or HBL Konnect).
📱 Registered Devices Only
Payments are processed using special POS (Point of Sale) machines or mobile apps that are linked to:
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JazzCash
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HBL Konnect
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Bank Alfalah
If the agent is using a regular phone or asking you to give your details without any device, that’s a major red flag.
👍 Biometric Verification Is a Must
You should never receive your payment without scanning your thumbprint. Make sure:
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Your CNIC number is shown on the screen
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The agent tells you the payment amount before the scan
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You receive a printed or digital receipt after the transaction
Spotting the Scams: What to Watch Out For
Fraud can happen in many forms. Here are the most common tricks and how to avoid them:
📩 Fake Messages
Only trust messages sent from 8171 — this is the official number. Ignore any message coming from:
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A full mobile number
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Short codes like “800171” or anything unfamiliar
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Messages with poor spelling, unrealistic offers, or requests for personal information
Pro Tip: Never share your CNIC or reply to suspicious messages.
🧑💻 Fake Agents & Stalls
Scammers sometimes pretend to be BISP agents, especially in crowded markets or near banks. They may:
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Ask you to pay a fee to release your payment
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Say they’ll “speed up” your payment for a cost
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Keep a portion of your money after scanning your thumbprint
Reminder: BISP payments are completely free. No agent is allowed to take any cut.
What a Real BISP Payment Looks Like
A legitimate payment process is simple and transparent. It includes:
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An SMS from 8171 confirming your eligibility or payment
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A visit to an official BISP partner retailer
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Showing your original CNIC
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Biometric verification using your thumb
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Receiving your full payment — no cuts, no fees
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Getting a receipt after the transaction
If anything seems off during this process, trust your gut and don’t proceed.
Also Read: Reopens with New Features Check CNIC Payments Complaints with Ease
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect something’s wrong or have already shared your details with a suspicious person:
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Call the BISP Helpline: 0800-26477
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Visit your nearest Tehsil BISP Office
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Report fake SMS or fraud to the PTA
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File a complaint at the FIA Cyber Crime portal
Quick reporting can help protect not just you, but others in your community too.
Stay Alert, Stay Protected
The government is working to improve safety around BISP payments, but staying informed is your best defense. Share this information with your family and neighbors so they can also collect their money safely and avoid falling into scam traps.
Remember: 8171 is the only official source. BISP never charges a fee. And no payment is real without biometric verification.
By staying cautious and informed, you can make sure your rightful support reaches your hands — safely and completely.