IPS Officer Warns Netizens About Rising Online Scams Amid Viral ‘Nano Banana’ AI Trend

Cyber experts and IPS officer VC Sajjanar caution users about fake apps exploiting the viral AI trend and urge them to protect their personal data
An image of word blocks creating the word google gemini
The Nano Banana AI trend highlights a larger issue: viral content can lure users into risky behavior. Markus Winkler/Pexels
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New Delhi, September 2025: The viral Google Gemini Nano Banana AI trend, that encourages social media users to upload photos for quirky AI-generated transformations, is sparking concern among cybersecurity experts and law enforcement officials. Authorities are warning users about the growing risk of online scams, identity theft and personal data misuse.

Viral Trend or Cyber Trap?

The Nano Banana AI trend has gained momentum across social media platforms, attracting users with the promise of fun, AI-generated images. Participants upload their photos to platforms claiming to create hyper-realistic or humorous visual outputs.

While the trend seems harmless, cybercriminals are exploiting the hype through fake websites. Unauthorized apps mimicking the official trend are being used to harvest personal information, including financial details and photos, which can be misused for scams and frauds.

IPS Officer Issues Alert

IPS officer VC Sajjanar, known for his proactive approach to cybercrime awareness, warned the public on X (formerly Twitter):

“Be cautious with internet trends! Falling for the 'Nano Banana' craze and sharing personal information online can lead to scams. With just one click, money in your bank accounts can end up in the hands of criminals.”

He further emphasized

“Never share photos or personal details with fake websites or unauthorised apps. You can share your joyful moments on social media trends, but don’t forget that safety should always be the top priority.”

The warning comes amid a surge in viral social media challenges that appear entertaining but carry hidden risks for users who unknowingly expose their private data.

How Scammers Operate

Scammers often create fake platforms posing as official AI apps. Unsuspecting users who upload personal photos or enter sensitive information may fall victim to identity theft or financial fraud. 

Once data is shared with these fake platforms, it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to retrieve.

Sajjanar warned:

“Trends come and go, but once your data is uploaded on a fake website or unauthorised app, it’s hard to get it back. If you step onto an unknown path, you’re bound to fall into a pit… think twice before uploading your photos or personal information. Remember… your data, your money, your responsibility.”

Expert Recommendations

Cybersecurity experts recommend several precautionary measures for social media users:

  • Verify official sources before participating in any online trend or AI app.

  • Avoid apps and websites requesting unnecessary personal information or permission.

  • Prioritize safety over virality, as trends are temporary but stolen data can have long-term consequences.

Experts also urge parents and guardians to educate children and teens about the risks of sharing personal information online, especially in the context of viral trends.

Social Media Awareness

The Nano Banana AI trend highlights a larger issue: viral content can lure users into risky behavior, often without their knowledge. Authorities stress that awareness, caution, and skepticism are the best defenses against cybercrime.

With social media trends spreading faster than ever, users are encouraged to pause and verify before clicking or sharing, ensuring that fun does not come at the cost of security.

(Rh/Eth/VK/ARC)

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