Budgam Police Act Against Man for Running Fake SSP WhatsApp Account
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on cyber impersonation, the Budgam police have filed an FIR against Sameer Ali Bhat for operating a fake WhatsApp account in the name of the Senior Superintendent of Police, highlighting the rising trend of online scams in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Takeaways
Budgam police have taken action against cyber impersonation.
The accused, Sameer Ali Bhat , operated a fake WhatsApp account claiming to be an SSP aide.
Police urge vigilance against such impersonation attempts.
Individuals should verify contact details before engaging with authorities.
Report suspicious activities to local police stations.
Srinagar, April 14 (NationPress) – Authorities in J&K's Budgam district announced on Tuesday that they have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against an individual for managing a fraudulent WhatsApp account impersonating the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). A police spokesperson revealed that Budgam police station received credible information indicating that a person named Sameer Ali Bhat, son of Ghulam Muhammad Bhat, residing in Pallar Budgam, was disseminating screenshots from a bogus WhatsApp account posing as the SSP Budgam. He allegedly claimed to be an aide to the high-ranking police official to manipulate public opinion.
Upon investigation, it was discovered that this individual has a history of involvement in several FIRs and was utilizing the phone number +91-9622126997 to operate the fraudulent account.
Additionally, he was sharing chat screenshots to project himself as a close confidant, aiming to exert inappropriate influence.
As the prevalence of cyber crimes, online scams, and fraudulent activities has surged in J&K, paralleling trends across the nation, it poses significant challenges for law enforcement authorities. The misuse of social media for criminal and anti-national activities is a primary driver of cyber crimes in the region. In response to this incident, Police Station Budgam has registered FIR No. 90/2026 under Section 319 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 66-C of the Information Technology Act.
The Budgam police urge the public to remain cautious and not to fall victim to such impersonation schemes. They recommend using only the officially published contact numbers on the official website when reaching out to police and government agencies.
Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station promptly to facilitate timely legal actions.
Point of View
This incident underscores the urgent need for increased vigilance against cyber crimes, which are becoming more prevalent as digital communication expands. It serves as a reminder for citizens to verify the authenticity of information and contact numbers before engaging with authorities.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions did the Budgam police take?
The Budgam police registered an FIR against Sameer Ali Bhat for operating a fake WhatsApp account impersonating the Senior Superintendent of Police.
What is the phone number associated with the fake account?
The fake WhatsApp account was operated using the mobile number +91-9622126997.
Why is this incident significant?
This incident highlights the rising trend of cyber crimes and impersonation scams in Jammu and Kashmir, posing challenges to law enforcement.
How can the public protect themselves from such scams?
Individuals are advised to use only officially published contact numbers and report suspicious activities to the police.
What laws were invoked in this case?
The FIR was registered under Section 319 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section 66-C of the Information Technology Act.
