Shillong, May 9: Amid rising geopolitical tensions, a message is going viral on WhatsApp claiming that ATMs across India will remain closed for the next 2–3 days due to a “massive ransomware cyber-attack” allegedly linked to Pakistan. The message warns users to avoid online transactions and claims that a dangerous video called “Dance of the Hillary” is circulating, which can supposedly format mobile phones.

However, none of this is true.

The Press Information Bureau’s (PIB) Fact Check unit has officially debunked the message, labelling it fake and urging citizens not to fall for such misinformation. According to PIB, there is no plan to shut down ATMs, and the viral message is nothing more than a hoax designed to trigger panic among the public.

“A message circulating on WhatsApp claims that ATMs will remain closed for 2-3 days due to a ransomware cyberattack. This claim is #Fake. No such announcement has been made by any authority,” PIB tweeted.

You can view the official clarification here:

PIB Fact Check Tweet

Are ATMs closed⁉️

A viral #WhatsApp message claims ATMs will be closed for 2–3 days.

🛑 This Message is FAKE

✅ ATMs will continue to operate as usual

❌ Don’t share unverified messages.#IndiaFightsPropaganda pic.twitter.com/BXfzjjFpzD

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 9, 2025

The viral message also falsely claims that a dangerous virus is being shared via a video link and references a supposed BBC Radio report—none of which exist. Such hoaxes often resurface during times of national tension or crisis and are part of a wider pattern of misinformation spread via messaging platforms.

What Should You Do?

• Do not forward such unverified messages.
• Rely on official sources like PIB, RBI, or your bank for any updates related to financial services.
• Report suspicious content to fact-checking units or cybercrime portals.