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A recent visa scam in Bengaluru has exposed how cybercriminals are exploiting changes in the US visa application process to trick Indian citizens. In one such case, a 45-year-old engineer lost access to his application portal and became a victim of identity theft, highlighting urgent concerns over digital literacy, embassy protocol, and social media-based fraud.
A Telegram Trap: Promises of Visa Fast-Tracking Turn Into Extortion
The fraudster promised to fast-track a US B1/B2 visa appointment originally scheduled for 2026 for a nominal fee. Drawn by the offer, the applicant joined a channel named “HyderabadChennai” on May 22, which boasted over 4,200 members. The channel appeared legitimate, offering detailed updates about visa processes.
Soon after joining, the victim was contacted by an individual claiming to be Vanam Sravan Krishna. This impersonator offered to reschedule the visa appointment in exchange for ₹10,000. Once the amount was transferred, the scammer demanded access to the victim’s login credentials on the US visa application portal and even issued a fake “appointment rescheduled” receipt.
When the victim hesitated, the scammer threatened him for another ₹10,000, warning he would change the login details. Despite paying again, the victim was ultimately locked out of his own application account.
A Growing Pattern: Credentials, Control, and Consequences
Police from West CEN registered the case on May 24, but the implications go far beyond financial loss. According to senior CID officers, the scam reveals how easily individuals compromise their own digital security in desperation. “This isn’t just about losing money,” said a senior cybercrime investigator. “It’s about voluntarily giving away control of sensitive platforms to strangers online.”
The victim, they explained, now faces dual consequences. Since the scammer likely altered security prompts, the engineer may not be able to recover his account. Worse still, he may be barred from submitting a new application, as embassies are known to flag unusual activity as potential fraud.
Another senior officer added: “The scammer now has access to everything the victim submitted, which could include passport scans, biometric appointments, and personal data.” Identity theft and misuse of documents are probable outcomes.
What This Means for Applicants and Authorities
Visa applicants, especially those navigating lengthy waiting periods or policy changes, are increasingly vulnerable to scams promising quicker results. With the recent overhaul in US visa scheduling and new appointment systems in place, fraudsters have found a lucrative entry point.
This case reflects broader anxieties about digital fraud intersecting with international migration processes. Experts say the embassies may need to reevaluate security and recovery options for applicants locked out of their accounts due to scams.
About the author – Prakriti Jha is a student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, currently pursuing B.Sc. LL.B (Hons.) with a keen interest in the intersection of law and data science. She is passionate about exploring how legal frameworks adapt to the evolving challenges of technology and justice.
