Cyber criminals are targeting people who applied for loans under the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY). They send fake loan approval messages on WhatsApp and demand Aadhaar and PAN card details. The government has issued a fresh warning against this growing scam.
PIB Issues Clarification on Fake MUDRA Loan Messages
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) issued a clarification on September 2, 2026. It said the MUDRA loan approval messages on social media are completely fake. The bureau urged people not to trust such messages. It also advised against sharing personal information with unknown individuals.
How the Scam Works Step by Step
Scammers first convince the target that their loan has been approved. They then ask for identity documents like Aadhaar and PAN cards. Later, they demand processing fees, registration fees or other charges. The fraud starts with a simple WhatsApp message and leads to identity theft and financial loss.
Fake Websites and Government Logos Used to Look Real
Scammers now use fake websites that copy official government portals. They misuse government logos and names to make messages look authentic. Ordinary users find it very hard to tell real messages from fake ones.
Never Share OTP, Aadhaar or PAN on WhatsApp
If someone sends a MUDRA loan approval message and asks for an OTP, refuse immediately. OTP is a critical security layer for banking and online services. Cyber criminals try to obtain OTP through various tricks and false pretexts. Even if the caller claims to be a bank officer, never share OTP, Aadhaar or PAN details on WhatsApp.
What to Do If You Get Such a Message
Contact your bank or the authorised lending institution directly for loan information. Do not respond to unsolicited WhatsApp messages claiming loan approval. Always verify loan communications through official channels only.
