FSSAI and Trade Licence Agent Scam on WhatsApp

How it looks on WhatsApp, the red flags and what to do.

WhatsApp is private and fast, which scammers like: a "wrong number" chat can turn into a task, an investment tip or a payment request within minutes. FSSAI and Trade Licence Agent Scam is one of the ways this shows up: A caller says your shop needs an FSSAI or trade licence now or faces a fine, and takes a high fee. See how small shops are pressed and what to check.

What fssai and trade licence agent scam looks like on WhatsApp

• A message from an unknown number, often with a stock photo of a smiling person.
• A friend or relative asking for urgent money from a new number or a hacked account.
• A group invite promising returns, jobs or prizes.

The scammers take business names and addresses from public listings and call small shops with the correct trade name. They say they represent a food safety or municipal department and that an inspection is planned this week. Some pose as consultants who 'handle all paper work' and promise a licence in two days with 'special contacts'.

Red flags to check on the WhatsApp message

• A call that threatens a fine or sealing the next day.
• A fee that is several times the official charge, paid to a personal account.
• A form or link that is not on the official government portal.
• A certificate promised within hours by WhatsApp.
• A new number says it is someone you know and asks for money; call the real person on the old number first.
• You are added to a group full of people praising profits.

What to do

1. Do not pay. Check your licence status on the official portal or at the local office.
2. Apply or renew only through the official government portal typed by hand.
3. Ask for an inspector's ID and a written notice before any action.
4. Turn on two-step verification in WhatsApp settings so a stolen SMS code is not enough.
5. Warn the group or family, and report the number on Sanchar Saathi if it is a scam call or message.
6. Do not click links or open files. Do not send money or codes.

Inside WhatsApp use Block and report; for numbers that call or text you, the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility) also takes complaints.

If money or a code is already gone

1. Call 1930 and report at cybercrime.gov.in with the payment and chat details.
2. Tell your bank on the number printed on your card about the transfer.
3. Check the licence number on the official portal to see if it is genuine.
4. File a written complaint at the police station and inform the local office.

National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930; report at cybercrime.gov.in.

Safeavio's link check can look at a registration link before you open it and warn about lookalike domains and risky patterns, and the scam check marks the inspection threat and fee pressure in a message you paste. It cannot confirm whether a licence is valid, which is shown only on the official portal or at the local office. A local trade body can help too.

Full guide: FSSAI and Trade Licence Agent Scam: how it works, signs and what to do. Other channels: phone call, email, SMS.

Questions