Bhopal sees rise in new cyber fraud using fake ‘Special Intensive Review’ calls

Bhopal: A new form of cyber fraud is worrying residents and keeping law enforcement on alert. Scammers pretending to be government officials are calling people and asking for sensitive information such as OTPs, ID numbers and bank details, claiming it is part of a “Special Intensive Review (SIR)” process.

Over the past few weeks, Bhopal’s Crime Branch and Cyber Cell have noticed a clear pattern. Victims receive calls or messages from people who introduce themselves as government verification officers. They use formal-sounding terms like “BLO verification,” “KYC update,” and “official notice” to appear legitimate. Many people believe the communication is real and end up sharing private information.

Police say the scam is well-organised. In many cases, fraudsters also send a link or ask the victim to install a mobile app. These apps are dangerous — once installed, they allow the scammers to take full control of the phone. They can record the screen, track keystrokes and even access banking applications.

Officers explained that these fake apps look very convincing. They use official-looking icons, colour schemes and government-style designs to fool users.

“Most people don’t realise how much of their activity can be monitored once such an app is on their device,” a senior officer said.

Investigators also found that criminals are becoming better at copying government branding. They use fake logos, digital seals and official-sounding names, making it harder for citizens to tell the difference between genuine and fraudulent communication.

According to the Cyber Cell, this trend is growing across the country. Scammers are taking advantage of the trust people naturally place in government agencies.

“People naturally trust anything that looks government-issued,” an officer said. “That trust has become the scammers’ most powerful weapon.”

Police urge residents to stay alert, avoid installing unknown apps and never share OTPs or banking details with anyone over the phone.