Scam alert: MeitY warns of fake DigiLocker apps | Double-check before downloading

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a warning after several fake DigiLocker applications were found circulating on app stores. In an alert shared via the official Digital India account on X, the government urged users to verify an app’s authenticity before downloading it.

“Fake DigiLocker apps are being used to scam users and misuse sensitive information. There is only one genuine DigiLocker app, and it is issued by the National e-Governance Division, Government of India,” the post stated.

Officials cautioned the public to steer clear of apps featuring lookalike icons or published by developers with vague or generic names. “Avoid apps with similar icons or generic developer names. Always double-check before downloading, and share this information to help others stay safe,” the advisory added.

A separate post from Digital India instructed users to rely solely on official download links available on the government website. “If you have already installed a suspicious version, delete it immediately and change your passwords for linked accounts. Download only from the official links available on the government website,” it advised.

Authorities warned that these fraudulent apps are designed to deceive users and may expose highly sensitive personal information to scammers.

What Is DigiLocker?

DigiLocker is a secure digital repository created by MeitY, providing citizens with access to key documents such as Aadhaar and PAN cards, driving licences, vehicle registration certificates, and academic records. Because the platform stores such critical information, installing counterfeit versions poses serious privacy and security risks.

With cybercrime on the rise, officials emphasise the importance of digital vigilance. Users are urged to confirm the source of government applications before installing them and to report any suspicious apps found on app stores. The most reliable method of verification, they noted, is checking the developer name, as the legitimate DigiLocker app is published exclusively by the Government of India’s National e-Governance Division.