In a disturbing case of digital identity theft, Sumita Misra, a senior IAS officer serving as the Secretary of Haryana's Archives Department, has become the latest victim of online impersonation. The officer has filed an official complaint with Gurugram police after discovering multiple fake Facebook profiles operating under her name and using her photographs.
The Digital Impersonation Uncovered
The alarming discovery came to light when Misra learned that unknown individuals had created fraudulent Facebook accounts bearing her identity. These fake profiles not only used her personal photographs but also replicated her official position details, creating a convincing facade that could easily mislead the public.
"I came to know that some unknown persons have created a fake Facebook ID in my name and posted my photos on it," Misra stated in her police complaint filed at the Sector 53 police station in Gurugram.
Official Response and Police Action
Taking immediate action against this digital fraud, the senior bureaucrat approached cyber crime authorities on November 28, seeking intervention to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Police authorities have confirmed that investigations are underway to trace the origin of these fake profiles and identify the individuals behind this identity theft operation.
A Growing Concern for Public Figures
This incident highlights an increasingly common problem faced by government officials and public figures across India. Digital impersonation poses significant risks, including:
- Damage to professional reputation
- Potential for financial fraud
- Misinformation spread under false authority
- Security threats to the impersonated individual
"The creation of fake social media profiles has become a preferred tool for cyber criminals targeting high-profile individuals," noted a cyber security expert familiar with such cases.
Protecting Digital Identity
The case serves as a crucial reminder for all individuals, particularly public servants, to regularly monitor their online presence and implement strong privacy settings. Cybersecurity experts recommend:
- Conducting periodic searches of your name across social media platforms
- Enabling two-factor authentication on all accounts
- Reporting fake profiles immediately to platform administrators
- Educating colleagues and family about digital safety measures
As investigations continue, this case underscores the urgent need for stronger digital protection mechanisms and faster response systems to combat the growing menace of online identity theft.
