The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) has issued an official warning to the public about a fraudulent passport application scam involving the misuse of Google Maps listings for the Regional Passport Office in Islamabad’s G-10 sector.

According to a DGIP spokesperson, a scammer created a fake Google Maps listing using the name of the official passport office and added unauthorized contact details, including a phone number and email address. The individual reportedly demanded payments through JazzCash and bank transfers, deceiving applicants by posing as an authorized DGIP representative.

DGIP Issues Public Disclaimer

The DGIP clarified that it does not collect payments through any personal accounts, mobile wallets, or third-party intermediaries. All payments for passport processing are only accepted through authorized channels, including National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) branches, 1Link payment systems, and official DGIP counters.

Citizens have been urged to avoid contacting unofficial numbers or responding to suspicious calls, messages, or emails claiming to offer faster processing, home delivery, or urgent appointment slots.

Action Taken Against Fraudulent Listing

The DGIP stated that it has already reported the fake listing to Google and initiated coordination with cybercrime authorities to investigate the matter. Efforts are underway to trace and penalize those responsible for the fraudulent activity.

The department has also advised citizens to verify all passport-related information only from the official website www.dgip.gov.pk or by visiting official DGIP offices in person.

Public Advisory for Applicants

To safeguard against such scams, the DGIP has shared the following important guidelines for citizens applying for passports:

• Always use official government websites for online passport applications.
• Never share personal details or make payments through mobile wallets to individuals claiming to be DGIP staff.
• Confirm official contact numbers through the DGIP website or verified government channels.
• Report any suspicious activity to the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cybercrime Wing.

The DGIP emphasized that all official communications are conducted through verified government domains and public notices, not via social media pages or third-party websites.

Officials further urged citizens to remain vigilant and help spread awareness to prevent others from falling victim to similar online scams targeting government services.

Topics #city magazine #Cybercrime #DGIP #Fraud Prevention #Islamabad News #News #Pakistan Government #Passport Office #Public Safety #Scam Alert