A case of cyber fraud and identity misuse has been registered at Amruthahalli police station after unknown persons allegedly impersonated Bengaluru North City Corporation commissioner Pommala Sunil Kumar to solicit money through WhatsApp messages.
Police said the complaint was filed on Wednesday by gazetted officer Akshath M M, a resident of Sahakaranagar, following a suspicious online incident reported earlier in the day.
Fake profile used official photo
According to preliminary findings, fraudsters allegedly used the name, designation and photograph of the commissioner to send messages from an international phone number.
Officials suspect the messages were intended to deceive recipients into transferring money or responding to fraudulent requests.
Senior officials also targeted
Police said similar communication was reportedly sent to Amaresh H, raising concern that multiple officials may have been targeted through the impersonation attempt.
Authorities described the case as a deliberate attempt to misuse a senior officer’s identity and exploit public trust.
FIR against unknown accused
An FIR has been registered against an unidentified accused listed as “Unknown Person (A1)”. Investigators are tracing the number used, digital footprints and possible links to organised cyber fraud networks.
Public urged to verify messages
Police have advised citizens and government staff to verify any request for money or urgent assistance received through messaging apps, even if it appears to come from a known official.
People have also been asked not to share OTPs, banking details or respond to suspicious international numbers.
Growing cyber threat
The case once again highlights the rising trend of identity misuse and fake profiles being used to target victims in Bengaluru.