Kollam, Kerala: With work on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and preparations for the upcoming local body elections in full swing, authorities have issued a warning to government employees to stay vigilant against fraudsters impersonating senior officials, including the District Collector.

In the latest case, Kollam Collector N. Devidas has alerted staff that fake social media accounts created in his name are being used to try and extort money from government officials.

The Collector’s office has confirmed that a false profile is being used to contact employees.

According to officials, the fraudulent messages congratulate Booth Level Officers (BLOs) for completing the distribution of enumeration forms related to the SIR and then request money.

Devidas urged employees not to fall for such messages or send money under any circumstances, and to remain vigilant against online impersonation.