Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 09 December 2023
In recent times, a surge in complaints regarding mobile applications and websites offering online loans has raised alarms over potential fraudulent activities. Individuals availing themselves of micro loans, typically amounting to a few thousand rupees, find themselves ensnared in a web of deceit and harassment even after repaying the borrowed sum. The distressing trend reveals that victims are coerced into making additional payments after being falsely informed of payment rejections. If the victim fails to comply, they face severe threats of having manipulated and explicit images distributed to their contacts.
The disturbing turn of events doesn’t end there. In several instances, the perpetrators, armed with access to the victim’s contacts through permissions granted during app installation, extend their harassment to the victim’s family members, exacerbating the ordeal.
This malicious exploitation hinges on the permissions sought by these apps upon installation. By gaining access to a user’s phone contacts, gallery, and more, these apps serve as conduits for siphoning personal data, later exploited to intimidate and torment the victims. Disturbingly, these apps have the capability to collect a broad array of sensitive information including pictures, audio, video, messages, and contact lists, enabling a relentless campaign of harassment.
Responding to this concerning trend, the Andaman and Nicobar Police has issued a comprehensive advisory aimed at curbing these malicious practices:
Avoid Installation of Online Loan Apps: Refrain from installing mobile apps offering loans online as they are highly likely to be tools employed by scammers.
Vigilance Over App Permissions: Prioritise a thorough check of permissions requested by new mobile apps to prevent access to personal information.
Regularly Monitor Installed Apps: Conduct periodic checks on your phone to identify any unfamiliar or unauthorised applications.
Report Abuse to Authorities: In instances of abusive or torturous methods employed by recovery agents of these Loan App companies, report the matter immediately to the Police.
Exercise Caution with Personal Documents and SIM Cards: Avoid surrendering personal documents for bank account openings operated by others and refrain from lending your SIM card for use by someone else, as these can be exploited for illicit purposes.
For those seeking assistance, information, or inquiries, the Cyber Cell in Port Blair can be contacted at Ph No. 03192-230668 or through the official website cybercrime.gov.in.
The Andaman and Nicobar Police’s proactive advisory aims to safeguard individuals from falling victim to these deceitful practices, urging the public to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities promptly.