WhatsApp police to combat online loan app frauds in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram

In response to the alarming surge in cases related to online loan frauds, the Thiruvananthapuram police have introduced a dedicated WhatsApp number for reporting such incidents, a TOI report stated. According to data provided by the city police, the statistics paint a concerning picture. In 2018 and 2019, the city reported zero cases of online loan fraud. However, the situation took a troubling turn in the subsequent years. In 2020, there were 12 cases registered, but the numbers skyrocketed to 1,152 cases in 2021. The trend continued with 197 cases reported in 2022, and as of July this year, there have already been 242 cases.

Residents can now report incidents of online loan app frauds around the clock by reaching out to the designated WhatsApp number, 9497980900. To report a fraud, individuals can use text, video, or voice messages. After receiving the initial information, police officers will initiate a call back to gather further details and officially register the case. It is important to note that the public is strongly advised not to make direct calls to the number for registering complaints.

This initiative is part of a broader statewide effort by the police to raise awareness among the public regarding the risks associated with online frauds, particularly those involving mobile loan apps. Heads of all district police departments will actively participate in this awareness campaign.


Cyber police have shed light on the challenging nature of investigating such online crimes, as many of the culprits operate from other states, with their servers often located in other countries. Raising public awareness is considered a vital component in combating these fraudulent activities.

One victim of these online loan scams, a resident of Sree Karyam, shared their harrowing experience: "I borrowed a mere Rs 10,000 through one of these apps and ended up having to repay over Rs 30,000. When they demanded even more money, I sought police assistance and registered a case. Despite their threats, I persevered, and now their mobile number remains inactive, freeing me from their threats."