Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Police has issued a public advisory cautioning citizens about a surge in fraudulent loan applications operating through social media platforms and even the Google Play Store. These fake loan apps, often misusing the names of legitimate companies such as Lentra Capital and Credit Nirvana, are trapping unsuspecting borrowers in financial and emotional distress.
According to police, the primary attraction of these apps is the promise of quick and collateral-free loans. With minimal verification and instant transfers, many individuals in urgent need of funds fall prey to the seemingly simple process. However, once installed, these apps demand invasive permissions, giving fraudsters access to personal photographs, contact lists, and private data stored on the victim’s phone.
Investigations have revealed a disturbing pattern in the fraud. Even borrowers who diligently repay loans find fresh sums credited to their accounts without any request. Soon after, demands for repayment begin often for amounts never disbursed in the first place. Victims are coerced into paying under constant pressure, threats, and fabricated loan claims.
In several cases, scammers have resorted to intimidation by misusing personal information. Police reports note that fraudsters morph private images from victims’ phones and circulate them among friends and family, subjecting victims to public embarrassment and severe mental trauma. Such tactics are deployed to force payments, regardless of whether a loan was genuinely taken.
Authorities have strongly urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid downloading or engaging with any app demanding access to personal phone data in exchange for loans. “Loans should only be availed from authorized banks and financial institutions that are regulated under law,” the advisory stressed.
Victims of such online financial frauds are encouraged to act swiftly. Complaints can be registered through the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 or via the official cybercrime reporting portal at https://cybercrime.gov.in.
Kerala Police emphasized that awareness and caution are the first line of defense. “If an offer looks too easy and too quick, it may be a trap. Protect your data, and don’t let fraudsters control your life,” the statement concluded.