HIGHLIGHTS

The Beginning: A Simple Addition to a WhatsApp Group

What Started as Easy Tasks Quickly Became Complex and Costly

In Just Days, a Victim Lost a Staggering Rs 7 Lakh

In a distressing incident, a resident of Bicholim, Goa, found himself on the losing end of a sophisticated task-oriented scam, resulting in a loss of Rs 7 lakh within a mere six days. This scam functioned primarily through WhatsApp and Telegram groups, employing a combination of trust-building strategies, seemingly harmless tasks, and increasing financial demands to exploit the victim. Regrettably, such fraudulent activities are on the rise, targeting individuals with enticing offers of swift financial gains.

The whole ordeal kicked off when the victim was added to a WhatsApp group, where the initial assignments appeared innocent enough. Tasks included following a few channels and sharing screenshots with a person named Chaya. Upon completing these modest tasks, the victim received small payments of Rs 150 via UPI, which fostered a sense of trust and authenticity around the scheme. However, matters escalated rapidly when the victim transitioned to a Telegram group that boasted even more “lucrative opportunities,” as reported by TOI.

For a similar incident, you can read: Woman loses Rs 1.32 cr after trusting a WhatsApp message: Here’s what happened.

As the scheme progressed, the victim was presented with a “bounty task,” which required an upfront payment to access greater rewards. Enticed by the promise of substantial returns, the victim willingly deposited Rs 2,000. The scam gained further credibility when the victim’s account on a deceptive trading platform displayed a balance of Rs 3,000. This illusion of success was solidified when the victim was able to withdraw Rs 2,800, which inadvertently encouraged further participation.

However, the scammers ramped up their demands. The victim soon faced a request for Rs 5,000 for additional welfare tasks, followed by even larger sums. The pressure mounted as the victim was informed that failing to complete these tasks would result in the forfeiture of the money already deposited.

This spiraling situation continued, culminating in the victim being coerced into paying Rs 68,000 to resolve a fabricated “data issue.” Despite the virtual balance reflecting a staggering Rs 6 lakh, new hurdles emerged. The scammers then demanded a merchant protection freeze and a tax payment of Rs 2.3 lakh before the victim could make a withdrawal. At this point, it became painfully clear: the victim was caught in a meticulously orchestrated scam.

For another alarming case, see: Retired bank manager loses Rs 2.22cr in insurance policy scam: Here’s what happened.

Tips to Prevent Falling Victim to Similar Scams

• Stay Alert for Unsolicited Messages: If you find yourself added to unfamiliar groups or contacted by strangers promising easy money, approach with caution.
• Skepticism Towards Unknown Platforms: Steer clear of engaging with unrecognized websites or trading platforms that require upfront deposits.
• Scrutinize Unrealistic Promises: If something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Promises of high returns with minimal effort are significant red flags.
• Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Be judicious in sharing your personal or financial data with strangers.
• Report Anything Suspicious: If you suspect fraudulent activity, don’t hesitate to notify the authorities without delay.