MEA – Ministry Warns Against Fake Social Media Advisors Seeking Payments

MEA – The Ministry of External Affairs has cautioned people against social media users who falsely claim to advise the ministry on important policy matters such as trade, migration and related issues. The warning comes amid reports of accounts presenting themselves as connected to the ministry and offering paid guidance to people seeking to engage with it.

Ministry Flags Misleading Online Claims

In a post issued through its official MEA FactCheck account on X, the ministry said it had noticed several individuals making misleading claims about their role in policy discussions. According to the advisory, some social media handles have suggested that they provide advice to the ministry or have access to its internal functioning.

The ministry said these claims are inaccurate and should not be treated as official information. It also clarified that such individuals do not represent the government or hold any authorised position within the Ministry of External Affairs.

Paid Sessions Raise Concerns

The advisory noted that some of the accounts were promoting paid consultations and sessions for people interested in learning how to work with the ministry. These offers were presented as professional guidance, but the MEA said the individuals behind them have no connection with the department.

The ministry urged people not to make payments or share personal details with accounts making such claims. It stressed that official opportunities, public notices and policy-related information are communicated only through recognised government platforms and verified channels.

In its statement, the MEA said it had become aware of posts suggesting that certain individuals were advising the ministry on trade, migration and other policy issues. It added that some of these users were also offering paid advice on working with the ministry, despite having no official association with it.

Citizens Asked to Use Verified Sources

The ministry advised citizens to remain careful while interacting with social media accounts that use government names, symbols or references to appear credible. It said people should verify information before acting on claims involving employment, consultancy, policy access or official engagement.

Users have been encouraged to rely on the ministry’s verified social media accounts, official website and authorised government communication channels for updates. Any offer that asks for money in exchange for access, guidance or influence should be examined carefully before a response is made.

The warning also highlights the growing use of social media platforms by impersonators who attempt to create trust through false professional claims. Such accounts may target job seekers, researchers, businesses and individuals looking for information about government procedures.

Part of Wider Efforts Against Digital Fraud

The MEA advisory is part of broader efforts by government agencies to address misinformation, impersonation and financial fraud on digital platforms. Authorities have repeatedly advised the public to avoid unverified accounts that claim special access to government offices or officials.

Government departments have also warned that fraudulent users often rely on official-looking profiles, copied logos and misleading descriptions to gain attention. In many cases, these accounts seek payments by offering services that they are not authorised to provide.

The Ministry of External Affairs has asked the public to stay alert and report suspicious posts or accounts through appropriate official channels. It reiterated that no individual should be considered an authorised representative of the ministry unless their association is confirmed through verified government sources.