A cybersecurity incident has rocked Dhaka University (DU) as a scammer, impersonating the university’s Vice Chancellor (VC), sent a WhatsApp message to campus correspondent demanding Tk 15,000.
On Saturday afternoon, Professor Dr Md Niaz Ahmed Khan confirmed to the Daily Observer that his WhatsApp had been breached.
The shocking incident has raised serious concerns about the digital safety of high-profile public officials and the broader vulnerabilities in academic institutions.
The message, written in a casual and urgent tone, requested an immediate bKash transfer of Tk 15,000, claiming it was for an “emergency situation”.
The targeted journalist, who works for a prominent national daily, immediately sensed foul play and cross-verified the number.
Upon confirmation that the number is officially associated with the DU VC, the incident was promptly reported to the university authorities.
Speaking to Daily Observer, DU VC expressed grave concern.
Cybercrime experts believe this is part of a broader pattern where hackers clone the identities of public figures to scam individuals via WhatsApp, Messenger, and other platforms.
DU correspondents who were targeted in the incident said, “It was unsettling to receive such a request from someone appearing to be the VC. Thankfully, I verified before taking action. Many may not be so cautious.”
As investigations continue, DU has reiterated its commitment to improving its cybersecurity infrastructure and collaborating with relevant agencies to prevent such breaches in the future. The incident serves as a timely reminder of the growing threats in the digital landscape—especially for individuals in public and academic roles.
NRE/NSA
