Cybersecurity alert message

2025.25 - Tuesday, 22 June 2025

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

We would like to bring to your urgent attention a concerning incident that has been unfolding since yesterday in Sri Lanka.

Some hackers are misusing Master’s profile picture on WhatsApp to deceive preceptors and abhyasis. They are sending fake invitations to join a group titled "Wisdom Bridge Book Reading Session," and then requesting OTPs under false pretexts.

Unfortunately, a few of our members have already fallen victim to this scam by unknowingly sharing OTPs. As a result, the hackers have gained access to their WhatsApp accounts. We are aware of at least three to four cases where money has been lost due to this deception.

After hijacking accounts, these scammers pose as genuine people and message their contacts requesting money. We've also noticed suspicious join requests in some of our WhatsApp groups from local numbers, which seem unrelated and potentially harmful.

We have informed the Country In-Charge, who has taken the matter up with the Cyber Crime Branch. However, given the widespread nature of the issue throughout Sri Lanka, the response from authorities has been limited so far.

What is particularly disheartening for us all is the misuse of Master’s sacred image in this fraudulent activity, bringing harm to sincere and trusting hearts.

To stay safe, please observe the following:

• Never share OTPs you receive, even if the request appears to be from someone you know.
• Verify any suspicious messages directly by calling the sender before responding.
• Do not click any unknown links or group invitations without confirming the source.
• Report suspicious activity to group admins and your local coordinator right away.

We are forwarding a sample of the suspicious number and message for your awareness. Let us stay vigilant and protect each other through mutual care and awareness.

Let us all stay alert and work together to protect our community from such attacks. We must take care of our personal information, respect Master’s image, and support each other. By being careful, reporting anything suspicious, and guiding one another, we can stop these harmful activities and keep our community safe.

With heartfelt concern and in the spirit of mutual care, let us protect the sanctity of our practice and help keep each other safe.

Stay safe from cybersecurity. Heartfulness Institute, Kanha Campus

For any assistance or to report suspicious activity, please send mail with a screenshot to this: it.help@heartfulness.org

With regards,
Heartfulness Institute, Kanha Campus