Bengal police issues alert of cyber fraud using CM Mamata's name and picture

The West Bengal Police have issued a high-alert warning regarding a sophisticated cyber-fraud syndicate using Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s name and photographs to deceive citizens. Fraudsters are circulating deceptive advertisements and videos across social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, promising instant, hassle-free loans. These ads falsely claim to be part of a government-approved scheme that provides loans without any CIBIL score checks or verification processes, luring unsuspecting individuals into a trap.

The modus operandi involves directing users to click on suspicious links or download unauthorized mobile applications. Once installed, these apps demand sensitive personal data, including Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account details. In many cases, victims are asked to pay an "advance processing fee" or share an OTP. As soon as the money is transferred or the data is compromised, the scammers immediately sever all communication, leaving the victims financially cheated and their identities at risk.

West Bengal Police have categorically stated that no such loan scheme has been announced or authorized by the Chief Minister or the State Government. The public is strongly advised not to trust advertisements promising loans without credit scores or through unofficial channels. For any financial requirements, citizens are urged to use only authorized banks, registered Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), or official government portals to ensure their safety.

To combat this growing threat, the police have shared crucial safety protocols. People are advised to save screenshots, phone numbers, and links if they encounter such fraud. Anyone who has fallen victim to this scam should immediately report the incident by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or filing a complaint on the official state cybercrime website. The police have confirmed that an investigation is underway to track and apprehend the individuals behind this fraudulent network.