IMumbai: The state cyber police have warned citizens about phishing emails falsely offering internships with the Indian Army, after this reporter received one such message claiming he had been selected for a free internship with a monthly stipend of Rs 75,000.The email said: “Hi Narayan, The Indian Army is hiring interns! We’ve handpicked this opportunity especially for you. Take a look and apply today! Role: intern, stipend Rs 75,000 per month, and no prior experience required.”State cyber police said anyone clicking the “apply” link in such emails risked having confidential information stolen, which could then be used to siphon money from bank accounts. TOI verified the message with Indian Army and defence officials in New Delhi and Mumbai on Wednesday and found that it was a phishing email. Officials said applications for the genuine Indian Army Internship Programme are accepted only through the AICTE National Internship Portal.Defence officials said the Indian Army Internship Programme 2026–27 is a 75-day paid internship initiative that allows students and young professionals to work on defence technology and strategic projects under the mentorship of military experts. Selected candidates receive a stipend of up to Rs 75,000, disbursed after successful completion of the internship and subject to maintaining at least 75% attendance.“The internship is strictly for training and skill development. It does not guarantee a permanent job or placement in the Indian Army,” defence officials said. A defence official said that the official internship is merit-based and free of cost. Officials in Mumbai and New Delhi said they had not received any complaint so far and learnt about the scam email from TOI.State cyber cell additional director general of police Yashasvi Yadav said phishing remains one of the oldest methods used by cybercriminals to dupe people through fake websites, emails and malicious links. To counter such cyber frauds, the cell will soon launch the Maharashtra Cyber Safe App, Yadav said. “The app is under development and is expected to be launched within a month. It will tackle six types of phishing attacks, including QR code fraud, APK file fraud, email phishing and website phishing,” he said.
