MEA flags fraudulent handles posing as policy advisers; warns "these individuals have no connection" to ministry
New Delhi, July 6
The Ministry of External Affairs has issued a stern advisory warning the public against fraudulent social media accounts that falsely claim to guide the ministry on critical policy areas, including trade and migration.
In a post shared by its official FactCheck handle on X, the ministry flagged that certain individuals are misrepresenting their credentials online by implying they hold advisory roles within the establishment. These deceptive accounts are reportedly soliciting money by offering paid sessions on how to collaborate with the ministry.
Categorically distancing itself from these handles, the MEA clarified that these individuals have no association with the government body.
"It has come to the notice of the Ministry that certain individuals on social media platforms are making posts suggesting that they are advising MEA on policy-related matters, including trade, migration, and other issues. Further, these handles are also offering paid advice/sessions on how to work with MEA. These individuals have no connection to the Ministry, and the Ministry urges all to be careful against such fraudulent posts on social media platforms," the official handle posted.
In light of these activities, the ministry has strongly urged citizens to remain vigilant and rely exclusively on verified official channels for any authentic communication or assistance.
This advisory forms a core part of the government's wider campaign to tackle misinformation, impersonation, and online fraud.
In line with this, authorities have consistently warned citizens against trusting unofficial accounts that exploit the names of government departments or fabricate claims of insider access to deceive the public for financial gain.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The fact that people are paying for "sessions to work with MEA" shows how desperate some are for government connections. MEA's warning is timely, but I wonder how many have already fallen victim. 😔
This is a global issue, not just India. I've seen similar scams in the US claiming ties to State Dept. MEA should collaborate with platforms like X to verify handles for government agencies better. A blue tick alone isn't enough anymore.
MEA should publish a list of all official social media handles and advisory bodies on their website. Too many people are gullible, especially older generations who aren't tech-savvy. The government has to make it easier to spot fakes, not just warn after damage is done. 🧐
Good step, but honestly, we need stronger cyber laws to penalize such impersonation. These scammers target innocent people looking for jobs or business opportunities abroad. The MEA should also run awareness campaigns in local languages, not just English. 👍
Impersonation of government officials is serious fraud. MEA is right to act. But let's also call out social media companies for not doing enough to verify accounts. Many of these fake handles have been active for months. Better late than never, I guess.
V