Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jul 17: Shiv Sena National secretary and spokesperson Shaina NC has lodged a First Information Report (FIR) with the Mumbai Cyber Police after her WhatsApp account was allegedly hacked and misused to defraud people by seeking money in her name.
According to Shaina NC, cybercriminals gained unauthorised access to her WhatsApp account on Thursday and sent messages to several of her contacts requesting urgent financial assistance. The messages falsely assured recipients that the borrowed money would be repaid shortly, leading some people to transfer funds and suffer financial losses.
Calling it a serious case of cyber fraud and identity theft, Shaina NC said the incident highlighted the growing threat posed by online criminals.
"If such an incident can happen to a public representative, it reflects the risks faced by ordinary citizens every day. Strong and immediate action is needed to tackle such cyber offences," she said on Friday.
Soon after discovering the breach, Shaina NC and her office alerted friends, colleagues and other contacts, urging them to ignore any financial requests sent from her number. A formal complaint was then filed with the Mumbai Cyber Police.
In her complaint, she urged investigators to identify and freeze the digital payment channels and wallets allegedly used in the fraud, trace those responsible for compromising her account, and strengthen cyber monitoring systems to ensure quicker responses to similar complaints in the future.
She also appealed to the public to remain cautious while responding to financial requests received through messaging applications. Advising people to independently verify such requests, even when they appear to come from trusted friends or family members, she urged citizens to immediately report suspicious online activity to the nearest cyber crime police station or cyber cell.
"As a responsible citizen and public representative, I will pursue this matter until those responsible are brought to justice. It is important that people feel safe while using digital platforms," she said.
The Mumbai Cyber Police have launched an investigation and are working to trace the digital trail of the hackers. Officials said further details will emerge as the probe progresses.