Mumbai woman clicks on Instagram clip about part-time work , ends up losing Rs. 6.37 lakhs
In yet another case of online frauds, a woman from Mumbai’s Gorai neighborhood lost Rs 6.37 lakh after clicking on an Instagram video promoting a part-time job. The advertisement offered quick earnings for basic online chores. However, when she attempted to follow through on the ad, she lost money to crooks. This instance is one of many examples of part-time employment scams in which fraudsters take advantage of people’s desire to earn quick money by performing easy tasks such as liking videos or leaving reviews.
This event reportedly began on November 30 at around 11 a.m., when the victim came on an Instagram account marketing a seemingly harmless part-time job, according to Free Press Journal. The advertising suggested that consumers could make money by just liking videos online. Intrigued, the victim clicked on the offered link, which led her to a Telegram group.
Once the victim had joined the group, the scammers, acting as job coordinators, outlined the procedure. Initially, the victim was requested to perform easy activities, such as like videos, for which she received modest but rapid rewards. The victims fell for the words, attracted by the payoff, and began following the chores, even receiving payment upon completion.
Later, pleased by the initial payouts, the scammers persuaded the victim to invest in higher-paying assignments, offering big returns. Convinced by the early success and reassurances from the crooks, the woman transferred Rs 6.37 lakh in three transactions.The situation changed when the promised gains did not materialise. Instead, the fraudsters requested more money as a “tax” before releasing her earnings. Realising she had been duped, the woman sought assistance and reported the matter to the Borivali Police.
The case is reportedly being investigated. Authorities warn people to be cautious, even though such internet scams occur frequently. Police are asking individuals to double-check the legitimacy of internet job postings and avoid clicking on dubious links.
Here are few safety tips to follow online and safeguard yourself from falling into such scam traps:
– If you see some job offer, always confirm the legitimacy of job offers or advertisements, especially those found on social media. Research the company or platform thoroughly before engaging.
– Always refrain from clicking on links shared through social media or messaging apps without verifying their authenticity.
– As seen in many cases, scammers often lure victims with promises of high returns for minimal effort. If an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is.
– Do not share sensitive details, such as bank account or UPI credentials, over unsecured platforms.
