Big Alert for Homebuyers: MHADA Urges Citizens to Verify Lottery Calls as Digital Scammers Target Housing Aspirants in Maharashtra

As Maharashtra expands its affordable housing initiatives, IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal, Vice President and CEO of MHADA, has emphasized the need for heightened vigilance among citizens applying for state-run housing schemes. With digital fraud rising across India, scammers are increasingly impersonating MHADA officials through calls, links, and social media messages, aiming to deceive unsuspecting applicants. The renewed advisory reminds homebuyers that official information is always released only through MHADA’s verified platforms, ensuring transparency and reducing the scope for fraud.

Housing lotteries in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and other cities attract lakhs of applicants every year. This scale has unfortunately created opportunities for fraudsters who attempt to exploit public trust by sending fake messages, unofficial payment links, fraud websites, manipulated PDFs, and unauthorized “confirmation calls.” The advisory urges applicants to avoid engaging with such messages and to rely exclusively on the official MHADA website and its authenticated communication channels.

Ensuring Transparency in the Digital System

MHADA’s digital lottery platform is fully transparent and algorithm-driven, offering equal chances to all applicants without human interference. Every step, from application to draw results, operates on secure systems designed to prevent manipulation. The authority clarified that no individual or organisation can influence the lottery outcome, increase success chances, or guarantee flats on payment. This digital backbone, developed and regularly audited for fairness, eliminates the possibility of external influence.

With more than a thousand homes set to be allocated in upcoming lotteries, the advisory comes at a crucial time. While most applicants follow the official guidelines, scammers are attempting to create panic and urgency by using unofficial messages that mimic government-style communication. These tactics often involve fabricated claims of “lottery approval,” “priority confirmation,” or “blocked unit allotment,” all of which are impossible within MHADA’s system.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

Applicants who notice suspicious communication are advised to immediately stop responding and verify details through MHADA’s official portal. Citizens should avoid clicking unknown links, uploading documents on unverified sites, or making any advance payment beyond the official fee structure. MHADA has also urged residents to preserve screenshots or call records and report them to cybercrime authorities when necessary. This not only protects the individual but also strengthens institutional tracking of such networks.

In addition, citizens are encouraged to double-check application status directly on MHADA’s portal instead of relying on third-party intermediaries. The authority reiterated that it does not authorize private agents, marketing representatives, or brokers for its lottery processes.

Staying Alert in Such Situations

Applicants should remain cautious whenever they receive unsolicited calls, emails, or WhatsApp messages claiming to be from MHADA. Legitimate updates are never shared through personal numbers or informal text chains. MHADA does not ask for sensitive details such as OTPs, passwords, banking information, or additional deposits. Any message demanding “processing fees,” “finalization charges,” or “verification deposits” is fraudulent and must be ignored.

Citizens are also reminded to maintain updated contact information on the official portal to ensure they receive accurate communication directly from the authority. In an age of rising digital impersonation, vigilance remains as important as opportunity.

The Scale of Upcoming Allotments Across Maharashtra

With thousands of homes expected to be released in new and upcoming lotteries across the state, MHADA has intensified its public-awareness campaign to ensure safe participation. Each year, multiple rounds of applications attract a high volume of interest, making them natural targets for scam networks. By reinforcing digital safety guidelines and directly engaging with citizens, MHADA aims to create an environment where aspiring homeowners can participate confidently.

This advisory reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding the urban housing ecosystem. As Maharashtra moves forward with major redevelopment, rental, and affordable housing initiatives, ensuring credibility, transparency, and trust becomes central to citizen welfare.

Responsible Cooperation for a Safer Housing Environment

Citizens, housing aspirants, and digital users have been encouraged to immediately notify MHADA, the nearest police station, or cybercrime officials if they encounter suspicious activity. Timely reporting helps authorities take swift action and prevents others from falling victim to similar scams. MHADA also advises the public to cross-check any suspicious communication by contacting official helplines and avoiding intermediaries.

With scams evolving rapidly in the digital era, informed citizens form the strongest line of defence. Through collaboration between applicants, institutions, and law-enforcement agencies, Maharashtra can continue building a safer and more trustworthy public housing environment. As MHADA continues to expand access to affordable homes under IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal’s guidance, public awareness and verified information remain essential pillars of progress.

For accurate, reliable updates and secure participation, applicants should refer only to MHADA’s official website at https://mhada.gov.in/ and the official lottery application portal at https://lottery.mhada.gov.in/.