Instant messaging apps have revolutionized communication, but they have also become hotspots for cyber scams. Fraudsters exploit the anonymity and ease of access provided by platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp, luring unsuspecting users into sophisticated traps that cost them thousands.
Scammers often pose as recruiters, investors, or financial experts, offering lucrative opportunities that seem too good to pass up. These schemes usually start with small, credible payouts to build trust. Victims are then encouraged to invest higher amounts, only to lose everything when withdrawals are blocked, or additional payments are demanded.
One common strategy is the “task-based scam”, where users are asked to complete simple tasks such as reviewing products or liking social media pages for quick cash. Initially, payouts arrive as promised, but soon, victims are pressured into making deposits that quickly disappear.
Another method is the fake investment scam, where fraudsters create convincing but fraudulent portfolios, showing massive returns to encourage further investment. Victims feel compelled to add more funds, only to find out too late that their money is gone.
- Sandeep’s Telegram Scam: A 32-year-old man lost over Rs 85,000 after being tricked into completing fake online tasks. What started as a small but steady income quickly escalated into demands for deposits through UPI transactions. The moment he stopped receiving payouts, he realized he had been scammed.
- The Noida Crypto Fraud: A man lost Rs 51.63 lakh within five days after being lured into a cryptocurrency scam via WhatsApp. The fraudsters created a fake investment portfolio that displayed Rs 60 lakh in profits. When he attempted to withdraw, he was asked for additional payments only then did he realize he had been conned.
- Mumbai’s International Cyber Racket: Mumbai Police recently uncovered a large-scale scam where victims were misled into stock market investments through fraudulent software. Telegram was the primary platform used to orchestrate the fraud.
- Be Skeptical of Easy Money Offers: If an opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid schemes that promise quick returns with little effort.
- Verify Before You Invest: Check the legitimacy of any investment opportunity. Research the company and look for verified reviews.
- Avoid Unknown Links & Groups: Do not join unknown Telegram or WhatsApp groups, especially those that promote financial schemes.
- Never Share Personal or Financial Details: Scammers use stolen information to target victims further. Keep your banking details private.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you come across a scam, report it to cybercrime authorities and alert your bank if financial details are compromised.
Instant messaging apps can be convenient, but users must stay vigilant to avoid falling into cyber traps. Awareness and caution are the best defenses against online fraud.
