Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Dec 28: The West Bengal police on Sunday issued a warning about fraudulent government loan advertisements circulating on social media that falsely use Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s name and photographs. Authorities cautioned that individuals falling for these scams could lose significant sums of money.
In an official advisory shared via its X handle, the state police highlighted the modus operandi of these scams, which often promise “instant loans,” “loans without CIBIL score,” “government-approved financial schemes,” or “guaranteed loans with no verification.” The police clarified that no such schemes have been announced or endorsed by the chief minister or the West Bengal government.
“These advertisements are completely fake and fraudulent. The use of the hon’ble chief minister’s name or image is unauthorised and illegal,” the advisory stated.
The police noted that scammers typically use Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp ads, or reels to redirect users to fake apps, websites, or WhatsApp numbers. They then ask for personal information such as Aadhaar, PAN, OTPs, and bank details, demand processing fees or advance payments, and disappear after collecting money or misusing the victim’s identity.
To avoid falling victim, the West Bengal Police advised the public not to trust offers claiming “No CIBIL,” “Instant approval,” or “Government-backed” loans on social media. People are urged not to click suspicious links, install unknown loan apps, or share OTPs, bank details, or identity documents. Only authorised banks, NBFCs, or official government websites should be trusted for loan services.
The advisory also warned that strict legal action would be taken against those misusing the Chief Minister’s name or image to run such fraudulent advertisements. Victims are urged to report scams immediately to the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or via cybercrime.gov.in and preserve screenshots, links, phone numbers, and transaction details for investigation.
“Strict legal action will be taken against persons involved in impersonation, cheating, cyber fraud, and misuse of public authority names and images,” the police statement added.