UK steps up anti-visa fraud drive in Punjab, Haryana with chatbot
British High Commission expands ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ campaign, unveils Punjabi WhatsApp service for scam prevention
2 min read
According to British High Commission data, Indian nationals now receive nearly a quarter of all UK visas globally, making India one of the largest visa applicant pools.
The British High Commission has expanded its ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ campaign across Punjab and Haryana, launching a Punjabi-language WhatsApp chatbot and partnering with local authorities to raise awareness about visa scams and promote legal routes to the UK.
The campaign, which began earlier this year in key areas of Punjab, including Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Chandigarh, uses social media, posters, and direct community engagement to warn people about common scam tactics. Recognising its early success, the British High Commission plans to deepen collaboration with Indian authorities and grassroots stakeholders over the coming months.
Unveiling a new QR code that connects users to its WhatsApp chatbot, the UK government aims to make official guidance on identifying and avoiding visa fraud more accessible. The chatbot provides information in both Punjabi and English and can be reached via +91 70652 51380.
“We are pleased to be continuing our ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ campaign in Punjab, making it more accessible with the launch of our WhatsApp chatbot QR code,” said Daniel Sherry, political counsellor at the British High Commission. “Working with partners in Chandigarh and Punjab, and with the Government of India, we will continue to protect those vulnerable to visa fraud.”
Amandeep Grewal, deputy head of mission in Chandigarh, added, “Our mission is clear — to protect innocent people from visa fraud. As we expand this campaign across Punjab and Haryana, we will continue raising awareness and promoting safe, legal travel to the UK.”
To engage the public directly, the British High Commission has organised photo exhibitions at Elante Mall (August 6, 2:30–5:00 pm) and Sector 17 Underpass (August 7, 4:30–7:00 pm). These events aim to highlight the emotional and financial costs of irregular migration and inform visitors about legal alternatives.
As part of the ongoing campaign, UK teams have held village-level meetings, particularly in rural Punjab, involving elders and women to spread awareness. Discussions cover the UK visa application process, associated costs, and how to identify fraudulent practices.
According to British High Commission data, Indian nationals now receive nearly a quarter of all UK visas globally, making India one of the largest visa applicant pools.
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