The Union government has warned users against fake websites and apps claiming to offer passport services. 

These websites and apps claim to offer services including filling of online application forms, scheduling appointments and more. 

"It has come to the notice of the Ministry that many fraudulent websites and mobile applications are collecting data from applicants and also levying additional hefty charges for filling up the online application form and scheduling appointments for Passport and related services. It is therefore advised to all citizens applying for Indian Passport and related services that they should NOT visit the above-mentioned fraudulent websites or make payment related to passport services," says the government in its advisory. 

Incidentally, the warning is not recent per se but is important as passport applicants continue to fall prey to such fake websites.