In a daring attempt at digital impersonation, cybercriminals have targeted the identity of a senior IPS officer in Bengaluru to orchestrate a financial scam. The fraudsters allegedly misused the name and photographs of Akshay M. Hake, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Bengaluru Central Division, to create a fraudulent social media profile.
The Modus Operandi
According to police sources, the miscreants created a fake account masquerading as the high-ranking official. Using this profile, they contacted individuals in the officer's professional and social circles, urgently requesting immediate fund transfers under various false pretenses.
The scam came to light when acquaintances and colleagues began receiving suspicious messages. Shortly after, alerts were triggered regarding unauthorized attempts to access the officer's registered online banking credentials, signaling a broader intent to compromise financial assets. Fashion Frill Women's Jewellery Butterfly Ring - Stainless Steel Silver AD Studded Adjustable Ring for Girls - Romantic Gift for Wife Girlfriend Promise
Police Action and Public Advisory
Upon confirming that the account was indeed a malicious fabrication, the DCP and the Bengaluru Police department acted swiftly to notify the public. A formal alert has been issued to all contacts and citizens associated with the official, urging them to:
Disregard all requests for money or personal information from unofficial profiles.
Exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited messages from high-profile government figures.
Report suspicious activity immediately to the jurisdictional cybercrime station.
Rising Trend of Official Impersonation
This incident highlights an alarming trend where cyber predators leverage the authority of IPS and IAS officers to gain trust and bypass the psychological defenses of unsuspecting citizens. Just recently, similar attempts were reported involving other public figures in the state, including local MLAs.
Bengaluru Police have launched a comprehensive investigation to trace the digital footprint of the perpetrators. Citizens are reminded that no government official or law enforcement agency will ever demand money or sensitive banking details via social media or messaging platforms like WhatsApp. Also Read: AI DeepFake Trap: Bengaluru Techie Extorted of ₹1.5 Lakh in 'Se*xtortion' Nightmare!