Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 03 June 2024
Authorities are urging citizens to exercise caution regarding illegal digital lending apps that have been proliferating nationwide. These applications offer short-term loans or micro-credits at exorbitant interest rates and include various hidden charges. Many of these apps operate outside the purview of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulations.
These illegal lending platforms primarily target vulnerable and low-income groups, requiring borrowers to grant access to sensitive personal data such as contacts, location, and photos/videos. This data is often misused for blackmail and harassment. The apps leverage bulk SMS, digital advertisements, chat messengers, and mobile app stores to reach a wide audience.
All citizens are advised to avoid using these illegal lending apps for any loan-related purposes. Those who have fallen victim to fraud, blackmail, or harassment through these apps should report the incident immediately to the Crime Crime Police Station, Port Blair, or their nearest police station.
For assistance, information, or inquiries, contact the Cyber Crime Police Station, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, via the National Helpline at 1930 or the A&N Police Helpline at 9531856083. More information is also available at https://cybercrime.gov.in.