MUMBAI, July 16: Mumbai Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) after multiple fake websites allegedly impersonated Tata Motors and falsely offered dealerships for the company’s electric vehicle (EV) business. The fraudulent websites reportedly collected money and sensitive personal information from aspiring entrepreneurs by promising dealership opportunities that did not exist, prompting a cybercrime investigation.
According to police officials, the complaint was filed after Tata Motors discovered several unauthorized websites using the company’s name, branding, logos, and promotional material to appear genuine. The fake portals allegedly advertised dealership and franchise opportunities for Tata’s growing electric vehicle division, attracting individuals looking to invest in India’s rapidly expanding EV market.
Investigators said the websites asked applicants to complete online registration forms and submit documents such as Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, identity proofs, business details, and contact information. Victims were then allegedly instructed to transfer application fees, security deposits, or dealership processing charges into bank accounts controlled by the fraudsters under the false assurance that dealership approvals were underway.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the accused used professionally designed websites, fake email addresses, forged appointment letters, and fabricated approval documents to convince applicants that they were dealing directly with Tata Motors. Some victims reportedly received calls from individuals posing as company executives, further strengthening the illusion of legitimacy before demanding additional payments.
Police have registered offences under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Information Technology Act, and other applicable cybercrime laws. Investigators are tracing domain registrations, bank transactions, mobile numbers, IP addresses, and digital payment records to identify those responsible for operating the fraudulent websites. Authorities are also coordinating with cyber experts and internet service providers to remove the fake portals and prevent further victims from being targeted.
Tata Motors has urged the public to remain cautious while applying for dealerships or business partnerships. The company clarified that all official dealership opportunities are announced only through its authorized corporate channels and warned prospective applicants not to rely on unofficial websites, social media advertisements, or unsolicited emails claiming to represent the company. It also advised individuals to verify every communication before making any financial transaction.
Cybersecurity experts note that fraudulent dealership scams have become increasingly common as India’s automobile and electric vehicle sectors continue to grow. Criminals often exploit the reputation of well-known brands to lure investors seeking business opportunities. Experts recommend checking website domains carefully, confirming contact details through official company websites, avoiding advance payments without proper verification, and reporting suspicious portals immediately.
Mumbai Police have appealed to anyone who may have interacted with the fake websites to come forward and assist the investigation. Victims have been advised to preserve emails, payment receipts, screenshots, and other digital evidence that could help investigators trace the perpetrators. Officials also urged citizens to report similar online fraud through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or the local cyber police station.
The case serves as another reminder of the growing sophistication of online financial scams targeting aspiring entrepreneurs. Authorities believe increased public awareness, stronger digital verification practices, and prompt reporting of suspicious activity will play a crucial role in preventing similar cyber frauds in the future while protecting consumers and legitimate businesses from financial losses.
