Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 18 December 2024
Authorities have time and again warned the citizens to be cautious of illegal digital lending apps that have been rapidly proliferating. These apps, which offer short-term loans or micro-credits, often come with exorbitant interest rates and hidden charges. Alarmingly, many of these platforms operate outside the regulations of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), leaving borrowers vulnerable to financial exploitation.
The illegal apps primarily target low-income and vulnerable groups, enticing them with easy access to loans. However, users are required to grant these apps access to sensitive personal data, including contacts, location, and even photos or videos. Unfortunately, this data is frequently misused for blackmail and harassment.
The apps use bulk SMS, digital advertisements, chat messengers, and app stores to reach a wide audience, often bypassing traditional safeguards. In response to this growing issue, authorities have time and again urged all citizens to avoid using these illegal platforms for any loan-related needs.
Victims of fraud, blackmail, or harassment from these apps are encouraged to report the incidents immediately. Complaints can be filed at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Sri Vijaya Puram or the nearest police station. Additionally, citizens can reach out to the Cyber Crime Police Station in Andaman & Nicobar Islands for further assistance by calling the National Helpline at 1930 or the A&N Police Helpline at 9531856083.
For more information and resources on how to protect oneself from such scams, visit the official website at https://cybercrime.gov.in.