Actor Ronit Bose Roy has become the latest Bollywood celebrity to fall victim to an impersonation scam, alerting his followers on Thursday, 21 May that an unidentified individual has been posing as him on social media to solicit money — particularly from women. The actor publicly shared the fraudster's contact details and issued a sharp warning that law enforcement is closing in.

What the Scam Involves

According to Roy, the impersonator has been using his name to approach people, allegedly attempting to take bookings and request money under false pretences. The actor identified the number in use as a Zangi number — 3318085685 — and the email address as ronitroybookings@hotmail.com. He also shared screenshots of conversations in which the accused is seen soliciting funds while impersonating him.

What Ronit Bose Roy Said

Taking to his official Instagram handle, the Udaan actor wrote: 'It has come to my notice that someone has been using my name and reaching out to people, especially girls and asking for money. This person has been trying to take bookings in my name. Everyone be careful. As for the perpetrator.... cops are coming for you.'

In a follow-up note, Roy was categorical: 'Please note I will never approach women on social network or otherwise. Obviously I will never ask anyone for money. If y'all come across anyone like that please bring it to my notice immediately.'

Roy's Warning to the Public

The 2 States actor urged netizens to stay vigilant and report any such approaches directly to him. 'Be very careful of people using celebrities' identities to fool people and take advantage of them. Me nor my representatives will ever reach out asking for money or for any such favors,' he cautioned.

Notably, the use of a Zangi number — an app-based virtual number often used to mask identity — suggests a deliberate attempt to evade detection. This is consistent with a broader pattern of celebrity impersonation scams that have surged across Indian social media platforms in recent years.

A Growing Trend of Celebrity Impersonation

Roy's case is far from isolated. Several Indian actors and public figures have previously reported similar incidents, where fraudsters leverage a celebrity's name and likeness to extract money or personal information from fans. Cybercrime cells across major cities, including Mumbai, have flagged a sharp rise in such cases, particularly targeting younger women. Victims are often too embarrassed to report the fraud, making public disclosures like Roy's especially important in raising awareness.

As of now, it is not confirmed whether Roy has formally filed a police complaint, though his public statement signals that action is imminent. Followers who have been approached through the flagged number or email are advised to preserve all communications and report them to the nearest cybercrime cell.