AP Deputy CM’s Office Alerts Public Against Fake WhatsApp Channel

The Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister’s Office has warned of strict legal action against those operating a fake WhatsApp channel in its name, cautioning the public against relying on information circulated through unauthorised platforms. The office clarified that the channel titled ‘Deputy CMO, Andhra Pradesh’ has no connection with the official establishment and confirmed that steps had already been initiated to register a First Information Report (FIR) in the matter.

The office said the unauthorised channel was using the name and identity of the Deputy Chief Minister’s Office to disseminate misleading information and content unrelated to its official activities. Such practices could create confusion among the public by giving unauthorised messages the appearance of being genuine government communications.

The office emphasised that impersonating a government institution and circulating false or misleading information under its identity were serious matters that would not be overlooked. It warned that those found responsible for running the channel would face stringent legal consequences in accordance with the law.

Misuse of the names and identities of government offices to mislead citizens would not be tolerated, the office asserted. It also underlined the importance of ensuring that information attributed to public institutions comes from authentic and officially recognised sources.

The Deputy Chief Minister’s Office appealed to citizens not to follow or trust the unauthorised WhatsApp channel. It specifically advised people against forwarding messages or other content published through the platform, warning that sharing unverified information could further spread misleading claims.

For accurate information, official announcements and the latest updates, the public was advised to rely only on the office’s officially recognised social media accounts and verified WhatsApp channel. Citizens were also urged to check the authenticity of online platforms claiming to represent government institutions before accepting their content as genuine.

The warning comes amid concerns over the misuse of official identities on digital platforms, where unauthorised accounts can create the impression of being legitimate government communication channels.

Reiterating its position, the Deputy Chief Minister’s Office said it would pursue legal action against those responsible for the impersonation. The office made it clear that individuals who misuse government identities to mislead the public would be held accountable under the law.