PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
The Uttarakhand cyber police has warned people to stay alert against fake loan apps that are being used for online fraud and blackmail. Police said that many recent cases have come to light where people were trapped through these apps and later threatened for money. Officials have asked the public to be careful while using loan apps and clicking on online advertisements.
According to police, fraudsters promote fake loan apps on social media by showing attractive advertisements for easy and instant loans. Many people click on these links thinking they are genuine offers. Once the app is downloaded, it asks for permission to access the user’s mobile contacts, gallery and other personal data. After getting access, the criminals misuse the information.
Police said that in several cases, fraudsters edited users’ photos into fake obscene or nude images. They then threatened to send these fake pictures to family members, relatives and friends saved in the contact list. Using fear and shame, they demanded money from victims. Many people became victims of this blackmail scam. Special Task Force senior superintendent of police Ajai Singh advised people not to download any unknown or unverified loan app. He also asked users to avoid clicking on suspicious links and attractive loan advertisements on social media. “Before using any financial app, people should check whether it is genuine and trusted,” he said.
Singh said that if someone has already downloaded such an app or become a victim, there is no need to panic. The person should immediately uninstall the app and report the matter. People can complain by calling the cyber helpline number 1930 or by visiting the nearest cyber police station or cyber cell.
