Cybercriminals Impersonate Telangana CMO Officials to Scam Business Owners

Cyber scammers are targeting business owners across Telangana by pretending to be officials from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). They are sending fake emails and WhatsApp messages, promising government contracts and asking for money in return.

The scam came to light after Ajit Reddy, Special Secretary to Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime Police. The complaint mentioned that messages were being sent using the name of the CM’s Officer on Special Duty (OSD), falsely offering government help and contracts.

“These fraudsters are using the names of senior officials to gain trust and cheat business owners. Their messages look professional and believable,” said a senior cybercrime officer.

The scammers claimed they could help victims get government tenders and contracts. They then tricked them into transferring money.

Following the complaint, police registered a case and started an investigation. Early findings suggest that an organised group may be behind the scam.

The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has warned business owners to stay alert. They said official government messages are never sent through personal WhatsApp or unofficial email accounts. Any message asking for money should be treated as fake.

Officials are asking the public to report any such messages to the nearest police station or cybercrime cell. A full investigation is ongoing to catch those involved in the scam.