Govt Warns Against Fraud Emails & Documents Circulated In Name Of Ministry Officials. Here's What You Can Do In Case You Receive One

According to the advisory, there have been multiple instances where fake emails, counterfeit official logos, and forged documents using the names of FCRA Division officials.

The MHA’s proactive approach aims to protect NGOs and other organisations from falling prey to these scams, which not only cause financial loss but also compromise the integrity of their operations.

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The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued an urgent public advisory cautioning individuals, associations, and NGOs against fraudulent emails and documents being circulated in the name of officials from its Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) Division. The advisory follows a surge in complaints about scams in which fraudsters, posing as MHA officials, have attempted to extort money by offering fake FCRA services.

Ministry of Home Affairs issues advisory against fake/fraud emails/documents being circulated in the name of officials of the ministry. pic.twitter.com/U8oEzfxETl

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 30, 2024

What Does The Advisory Say?

According to the advisory, there have been multiple instances where fraudulent communications, including fake emails, counterfeit official logos, and forged documents using the names of FCRA Division officials, have been sent to NGOs and associations. These communications falsely demand payment for FCRA-related services such as registration, renewal, and other approvals. The MHA has emphasised that these emails are completely bogus and should not be trusted.

What Should You Do?

The advisory highlights that FCRA services are only available through the official FCRA portal at fcraonline.nic.in. Any required fees, whether for registration, renewal, or other FCRA services, should only be paid through the secure online payment gateway provided on the official website. The MHA warned the public not to respond to any unsolicited emails or messages requesting personal information or payments, stressing that no MHA official will directly contact applicants with such demands.

The MHA’s advisory also directs individuals and organisations facing issues or having queries related to FCRA to reach out directly to the FCRA support team. Assistance is available through the official helpdesk at helpdesk.fcraonline.gov.in, via email at support-fcra@gov.in, or by calling the designated helpline numbers, 011-23077504 and 011-23077505. The ministry reiterated that these are the only official channels for addressing concerns related to FCRA services.

This warning from the MHA serves as a reminder of the increasing sophistication of cyber scams targeting NGOs and associations, particularly those engaged in receiving foreign contributions. By exploiting the official names and credentials of Government officials, these scammers create a false sense of urgency and legitimacy, prompting unsuspecting victims to comply with their demands. The ministry has advised all stakeholders to stay vigilant, verify the authenticity of any communication, and rely solely on the official FCRA website for services.

The MHA’s proactive approach aims to protect NGOs and other organisations from falling prey to these scams, which not only cause financial loss but also compromise the integrity of their operations. The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and has urged the public to report any suspicious communications to the relevant authorities.