Personal Loan Scams on the Rise: How to Identify Safe Loan Apps and Protect Yourself

Personal loans have become widely accessible in today’s digital world, but this convenience has also opened the door to a surge in fraud through unregulated lending apps. Thousands of people have fallen victim to illegal personal loan platforms that lure users with quick approvals but trap them with excessive interest rates, hidden charges and data misuse. As digital lending expands, experts stress the need for careful verification before choosing any app.

Between 2021 and 2023, over 4,700 fraudulent lending apps were removed from online platforms. Despite this major cleanup, several suspicious apps continue to operate, offering instant loans without proper documentation. These apps often promise hassle-free approval, but once users borrow money, they are forced to pay back many times the actual amount through unethical recovery practices. Financial advisors suggest reviewing app permissions closely, as granting unnecessary access can put users’ personal information at risk.

One of the biggest concerns with illegal lending apps is data misuse. Many of these platforms access users’ phone contacts, photos and messages under the pretext of verification. There have been multiple reports of such apps morphing photographs or threatening borrowers through their contact lists, creating emotional pressure to recover inflated amounts. Such tactics highlight the severe risk of allowing unrestricted access to personal data.

Another common trick used by fraudulent apps is pretending to be associated with reputed banks or well-known NBFCs. While the branding may look authentic, these platforms are often not regulated. To counter such threats, the Reserve Bank introduced updated digital lending guidelines in May 2025, focusing on transparency and consumer protection. These regulations aim to streamline loan agreements, ensure fair underwriting and regulate recovery processes to prevent harassment.

Hidden charges are another major red flag. Several apps display low interest rates but impose a high processing fee—sometimes as high as 10%—right at the time of disbursement. For example, if a borrower applies for a ₹10,000 loan, the app may deduct ₹1,000 as processing fees upfront, yet charge interest on the full ₹10,000. This deceptive structure significantly increases the borrower’s financial burden, often leading to a debt trap.

Experts strongly recommend checking user reviews before downloading or applying through any loan app. Low ratings, frequent complaints or reports of harassment are clear warnings to avoid such platforms. Relying on trusted sources, financial advisors or official bank websites can help users identify genuine lending partners.

The RBI’s latest regulatory measures have provided much-needed relief to borrowers. By standardising lending practices and introducing stricter checks for digital platforms, the guidelines aim to reduce fraud and increase trust in the digital lending ecosystem. These changes are expected to make borrowing safer, but users must still exercise caution when sharing personal details online.

Taking a personal loan is not inherently risky, but using the wrong app can lead to financial distress, emotional harassment and long-term complications. Borrowers should prefer regulated banks, certified NBFCs or RBI-approved digital lending apps. Credibility, transparency and user protection should always be the top priorities.

Ultimately, vigilance is your strongest defence. By verifying app authenticity, reading user feedback and avoiding platforms that request excessive data access, you can protect yourself from scams. In a digital world full of choices, choosing the right lending platform can safeguard your finances and ensure a secure borrowing experience.