In a concerning development for the education sector, Bengaluru police have launched a formal investigation into two Instagram accounts suspected of circulating counterfeit SSLC preparatory examination question papers. The case highlights the growing threat of digital misinformation targeting students during critical academic periods.
Official Complaint Filed by Education Department
Krishnaji S Karichannavar, the director of secondary education within the Department of School Education, took decisive action by filing a detailed complaint with the Central Cyber Crime police station on January 29. The complaint specifically names the Instagram profiles delta_kannadiga_21 and mr_kannadiga_2_ as the primary suspects in this fraudulent scheme.
Modus Operandi of the Fraudulent Accounts
According to the official complaint, these accounts allegedly engaged in a systematic campaign to mislead students and their parents. The perpetrators reportedly uploaded fabricated question papers, falsely presenting them as authentic SSLC preparatory exam materials. The ultimate goal, as stated by authorities, was to coerce students into paying money for access to these purported exclusive exam papers.
Karichannavar provided a detailed timeline of events. The Department of School Education had organized the preparatory examinations for Class 10 students, with the second phase commencing on January 27. Exploiting this schedule, the account delta_kannadiga_21 reportedly posted a mathematics question paper on January 27, falsely claiming it was the official SSLC paper scheduled for the following day, January 28.
Verification and Clarification by Authorities
In a more audacious move, the same account allegedly created and uploaded a fake Kannada first language question paper on January 27, prior to the actual commencement of the exam. The education department promptly conducted a thorough verification of these circulated documents. After careful examination, officials issued a public clarification, confirming that the papers shared by these Instagram accounts were not genuine and bore no connection to the official examination process.
The complaint further implicates the second account, mr_kannadiga_2_, in similar activities. This profile is accused of circulating additional fabricated question papers. Specifically, it allegedly posted a fake mathematics paper on the morning of January 28 and a counterfeit Kannada paper on January 27, just before the exam began.
Legal Action and Investigation Underway
Officials have alleged that the accused individuals behind these accounts actively solicited money under the false pretense of providing leaked or official SSLC question papers from the department. This activity not only constitutes financial fraud but has also been cited for spreading misinformation and creating unnecessary panic and anxiety among the student community during a stressful examination period.
In response to the formal complaint, the Cyber Crime police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act. Additionally, charges have been filed under Sections 336 (forgery) and 353 (statements conducing to public mischief) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Ongoing Digital Forensic Efforts
A senior investigating officer provided an update on the case, stating, "We are actively in the process of tracing the IP addresses associated with the holders of these Instagram accounts. Our technical teams are working to identify the individuals responsible for this scheme." The officer also noted a silver lining, adding, "Fortunately, as of now, no students have come forward to report having actually paid money to these fraudulent accounts. We urge students and parents to remain vigilant and report any such suspicious activities immediately."
This incident serves as a critical reminder for students, parents, and educators to rely solely on official communication channels from recognized educational boards and institutions for examination-related information. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination system and taking strict legal action against those who attempt to undermine it through digital deception.
