Indian High Commission warns of visa scammers

The High Commission of India in Dhaka has issued a public advisory warning people about fraudsters impersonating its officials and offering fake visa or consular services in exchange for money, according to a statement posted on the mission's official X account (formerly Twitter) on August 5.

The High Commission said it had received reports of scammers contacting individuals by phone, WhatsApp, social media and email, falsely claiming to represent the mission and promising to facilitate visas or other consular services in return for payment.

"No official of the High Commission will ever contact you by phone, WhatsApp, social media, or email to offer a visa or solicit money," the advisory said, adding that all visa applications are processed strictly according to established procedures.

The mission urged members of the public who receive such calls, messages or offers not to make any payment or share personal or financial information with the callers. It asked victims or recipients of such fraudulent contact to report the incident immediately to the High Commission, along with the caller's number, screenshots or any other available details, via email at visa.dhaka@mea.gov.in.

The High Commission called on the public to "remain vigilant and help spread awareness to protect others from such fraudulent activities".