A new and organised pattern of cyber fraud has surfaced in West Bengal, where cybercriminals are using the name and photograph of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to circulate fake advertisements promising “instant government loans” across social media platforms. Treating the matter as serious, the West Bengal Police has issued a public advisory, making it clear that no such Chief Minister–endorsed or state government loan scheme exists, and that the advertisements are entirely fake and fraudulent.
According to the police, these ads—widely seen on Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp—lure users with claims such as “no CIBIL check,” “government approval,” and “instant disbursal.” Though they appear professional and credible at first glance, investigators say the intent is to extract sensitive personal and banking information or collect money under the guise of processing fees. Once funds are transferred, the fraudsters cut off contact or misuse the victim’s identity.
What the Police Advisory Says
In its advisory, the police stated unequivocally that the use of the Chief Minister’s name or image for such purposes is unauthorised and illegal. The links embedded in these ads redirect users to fake websites, fraudulent mobile apps or WhatsApp numbers, where victims are manipulated step by step into sharing confidential details.
Investigators say the fraudsters typically follow a standard playbook:
- Build trust through official-looking, “government-style” advertisements
- Seek Aadhaar, PAN, mobile numbers, OTPs and bank details
- Demand payments in the name of “processing fees” or “verification charges”
- Disappear after receiving money or misuse the victim’s identity
Illusion of ‘Government Backing’, Urban and Rural Areas Targeted
Police investigations indicate that criminals deliberately exploit the perceived authority of public office to pressure victims into quick decisions. The scam is not confined to metropolitan areas; it has spread to rural and semi-urban regions, where digital awareness is relatively lower and references to “government schemes” often generate immediate trust.
Officials noted that in several cases, victims did not verify the legitimacy of the offer simply because the advertisement carried the image of a well-known public figure.
FCRF Assessment: Trust Is the Biggest Weapon
The Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF), which researches cybercrime and emerging digital threats, has observed a sharp rise in public-figure impersonation–based online fraud in recent years.
According to FCRF, attaching images of popular leaders or government symbols gives fake advertisements a false veneer of credibility. Financial stress, the need for quick loans, and social media algorithms together create a favourable ecosystem for fraudsters—often prompting citizens to proceed without basic verification.
Legal Provisions and Strict Warning
The police have warned that such activities constitute serious offences, including impersonation, cheating, cyber fraud, and misuse of public authority identities. Those involved will face stringent action under the Information Technology Act and other applicable laws. Authorities also cautioned that knowingly sharing or promoting such fake advertisements could attract legal consequences.
Do’s and Don’ts: Police Advice to Citizens
Citizens have been urged to:
- Avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious links
- Refrain from installing unverified mobile applications
- Never share Aadhaar, PAN, OTP or bank details
- Avoid making any advance or processing fee payments
- Report suspicious content immediately
Complaints can be lodged via the 1930 Cyber Crime Helpline or at cybercrime.gov.in. Police have also advised preserving screenshots, URLs, phone numbers and transaction details to support investigations.
Next Steps
According to officials, the police are tracing the digital trail linked to these fake advertisements, including domains, apps and bank accounts. In coordination with social media companies, content takedowns and account blockings have been accelerated. Preparations are underway for legal action against the organised networks behind the scam.
The misuse of the Chief Minister’s image to promote “instant government loans” underscores the evolving nature of cyber fraud. Police and experts alike advise citizens to verify any government scheme only through official announcements and government websites, and to remain sceptical of attractive financial offers circulating on social media.
