Introduction
Social media has become a daily habit for millions of people in India. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and LinkedIn help users connect, share memories, and build professional networks. However, the same platforms also attract cybercriminals who create fake profiles and steal identities. What looks like a normal account can sometimes be a copied photo, a stolen name, or a completely false personality. Identity theft on social media can lead to financial fraud, reputation damage, and emotional stress. Therefore, awareness and preventive action are essential.
What Are Fake Profiles and Identity Theft?
A fake profile is a social media account created using false information, stolen photos, or another person’s name. Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal details, images, or login data without permission to impersonate you online. Criminals may open new accounts in your name or take control of your existing accounts. In both situations, the offender tries to gain trust, cheat others, or misuse your reputation for personal benefit.
How These Frauds Usually Happen
Identity theft on social media often starts quietly. A criminal may download your public photos or copy details from your bio. Later, they create a similar account and send friend requests to your contacts. In some cases, phishing messages are used to steal passwords or OTPs. At times, weak privacy settings make it easier for strangers to collect personal information. Once control is gained, the fake account may ask others for money, spread false information, or post harmful content.
Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore
Certain signs can reveal fake profiles or identity misuse. Duplicate accounts using your name or photos are a major warning. Unusual login alerts or password reset messages also indicate risk. Messages from friends asking about strange requests from “your account” should never be ignored. Sudden profile changes, unknown posts, or missing followers can also signal that someone has gained access.
Legal Protection Available in India
Indian law provides strong remedies against fake profiles and identity theft. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, cheating provisions apply when deception causes financial or reputational harm. Identity impersonation provisions apply when someone pretends to be another person online. Criminal intimidation may apply if threats or fear tactics are involved.
The Information Technology Act, 2000 directly addresses digital identity crimes. Section 66C deals with identity theft, including misuse of passwords, digital signatures, and personal data. Section 66D covers cheating by personation using electronic platforms. Section 66E protects privacy when personal images or data are shared without consent. These laws empower cybercrime units to trace offenders and take legal action.
How to Protect Yourself on Social Media
Strong privacy habits reduce risk significantly. Keep social media accounts private whenever possible. Use unique and strong passwords instead of common words. Enable two-factor authentication on all major platforms. Avoid sharing personal details such as phone numbers, addresses, or financial information publicly. Regularly check search results for your name to detect duplicate profiles early. In addition, report suspicious accounts immediately to the platform.
What to Do If You Become a Victim
Quick response limits damage. First, change all passwords linked to the affected account. Next, inform friends and followers not to trust suspicious messages. Then, report the fake or hacked account through the platform’s help centre. Save screenshots and login alerts as evidence. Finally, file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal of India or visit a nearby cybercrime police station. Early reporting increases the chance of account recovery and offender tracing.
Conclusion
Fake profiles and identity theft on social media in India are growing digital threats, but they are preventable. Criminals rely on stolen photos, weak passwords, and public information. Awareness, strong privacy settings, and quick legal action can stop misuse before it spreads. Social media should remain a space for connection and creativity, not fear. By staying alert and informed, users can protect their identity, reputation, and digital security with confidence.
