A Pune-based businessman was defrauded of ₹11.5 lakh through an online task scam. The scammers lured him with the promise of quick earnings. Staying vigilant is crucial.
Scam Alert: In the era of Digital India, with the rise of online payments, businesses, and work-from-home options, cybercriminals are also becoming increasingly active. A recent case emerged from Pune, where a second-hand car dealer was victimized in a major scam involving "online tasks," losing ₹11.5 lakh.
This case not only highlights a significant financial fraud but also demonstrates how people are being ensnared through social media, messaging apps, and task-based schemes.
The Scam Begins: Small Tasks, Quick Profits
A businessman residing in Shukrawar Peth received a WhatsApp message stating, "₹150 task, complete now and get instant payment." Driven by curiosity, he completed the task and received ₹150 in his account within minutes. This marked the beginning of the scammers gaining his trust.
He was then added to a private messaging group where he was given small online tasks daily (such as installing an app, watching a video, etc.), receiving ₹100 to ₹500 for each task.
The Big Blow: The Allure of 'Merchant Tasks'
After a few days, the group administrator offered the businessman a "merchant task," promising double the investment. This started with ₹10,000 and gradually escalated to lakhs.
Trusting the scheme, the businessman transferred ₹11.5 lakh in installments to different bank accounts. He was repeatedly told that his entire earnings would be released after the next task.
However, when he demanded his earnings, excuses started appearing—"server down," "last task pending," "invest a little more"—delaying the payment.
Realization: Too Late
After two days of receiving no response and the task group being deleted, the businessman realized he had been scammed. He immediately filed a complaint with the cyber police.
The police's preliminary investigation revealed that the scammers used fake IDs to obtain SIM cards and utilized fintech apps and digital wallets to receive funds. The transactions were executed so quickly and cleverly that tracking the money has become extremely difficult.
How This Scam Works Technically?
1. Phishing Texts
Users receive tempting offers like "Earn ₹200 today!" containing hidden fraudulent links.
2. Fake Websites and Apps
Scammers create their own fake task websites that mimic legitimate ones.
3. Use of Telegram/WhatsApp Groups
These platforms are used to share tasks, payment screenshots, and "user feedback" to create an illusion of legitimacy.
4. Fake Payment Screenshots
Fake payment screenshots and videos are shared to build trust.
5. Use of Multiple Bank and Wallet Accounts
To hinder money tracking, scammers use numerous accounts with fraudulent KYC details.
Cyber Experts' Warning
According to cyber experts, this scam is a classic case of social engineering—exploiting human emotions and greed, using technology to deceive.
The RBI and CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) have previously issued warnings regarding such schemes.
Precautions to Avoid Such Scams
1. Check URLs
Verify the URL and SSL certificate (starts with https://) of the website where you're performing tasks.
2. Use Only Official Apps
Never download APK files or third-party apps. Install apps only from the Google Play Store or App Store.
3. Set Limits in Payment Apps
Enable transaction limits in PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm to prevent large sums from being transferred without a password.
4. Implement Two-Factor Authentication
Enable 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) for all your online accounts.
5. Report Suspicious Groups and Numbers
Immediately report such groups received on WhatsApp, Telegram, and SMS services.
6. Use the Cyber Crime Portal
Report such fraud to https://cybercrime.gov.in or helpline number 1930.
