Port Blair, Dec 01: A large number of complaints are being reported nationwide pertaining to illegal digital lending apps, which provide short term loans/ micro credits at exorbitant interest rates along with processing/hidden charges. These apps, which may not be Regulated Entities (RE) by RBI, target members of vulnerable and low income groups, and the borrowers are asked to provide mandatory access to confidential personal data like contacts, location, photos/videos, in order to avail the loans. This personal data is then misused for blackmail and harassment. The illegal apps make use of bulk SMSes. Digital advertisements, chat messengers and mobile app stores, etc. on a mass scale. All citizens are therefore advised against the usage of these illegal lending apps, for availing loans. If anyone has been cheated, blackmailed or harassed as a result of using these apps, they are advised to report the matter to the Cyber Cell, CID, Port Blair or the nearest Police Station of the area without delay.
You may also call or report online at:
Cyber Helpline No. 1930
Cyber Crime registration portal: cybercrime.gov.in
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