Part-time Online Job Leads to Massive Financial Loss for IT Professional
Chandigarh, June 26, 2024 –
In a distressing incident of online fraud, a 23-year-old woman from Sector 30, Chandigarh, fell victim to a cunning scheme, resulting in a staggering loss of ₹2.09 lakh. Amisha Sachdeva, an employee at an IT company, lodged a complaint with the local police, narrating her unfortunate encounter with fraudulent individuals. This marks the eighth reported case of its kind in the region, raising concerns about the increasing prevalence of cybercrime.
Discovering the Opportunity: A Tempting Offer on WhatsApp
Amisha Sachdeva, a diligent young professional, was targeted by fraudsters who exploited her aspirations for a part-time job to augment her income. It all began in April when she received a seemingly innocent message on WhatsApp, offering her an enticing opportunity to earn money by liking YouTube videos. Curiosity piqued, she clicked on the provided link, which proved to be the gateway to her financial nightmare.
Source: The Indian Express
Entrapped in the Telegram Group
Upon clicking the link, Amisha found herself unexpectedly added to a group on the popular messaging platform, Telegram. Little did she know that this group was a front for fraudulent activities orchestrated by a network of cybercriminals. The group members promptly instructed her to like YouTube videos in exchange for monetary rewards, exploiting her enthusiasm to make easy money.
Initial Success and Deceptive Gains
Amisha Sachdeva disclosed to law enforcement officials that, as directed, she liked three videos and was pleasantly surprised to discover ₹150 deposited into her bank account. Encouraged by this initial success, she decided to invest ₹1,000 into the scheme, hoping to amplify her returns. To her delight, her investment of ₹1,000 grew to ₹1,300, seemingly validating the legitimacy of the endeavor.
The Dark Turn: A Promise of Higher Returns Leads to a Devastating Loss
However, the fraudsters’ plan did not end there. Capitalizing on Amisha’s growing trust and the allure of higher returns, they convinced her to invest a larger sum of money. Assured of even greater profits, she succumbed to the temptation and handed over a significant amount. Regrettably, this decision proved disastrous, as Amisha subsequently lost a staggering ₹2.09 lakh, a devastating blow to her financial stability.
Source: Triune Online
Authorities Launch Investigation into Cyber Crime
Deeply affected by her ordeal, Amisha Sachdeva decided to approach the police, seeking justice and hoping to prevent others from falling victim to similar scams. Subsequently, a case was registered under Sections 419 (punishment for cheating by personation), 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property), and 120B (punishment of criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code at the Cyber Crime police station in Chandigarh.
Eighth Case of Its Kind Raises Concerns
The case filed by Amisha Sachdeva is the eighth incident reported to the Chandigarh police, further highlighting the growing threat of online fraud in the region.
Citizens Warned to Stay Cautious
Law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts have issued warnings to the public, emphasizing the importance of exercising caution while engaging in online activities. It is crucial for
individuals to thoroughly research and verify any opportunities that promise quick financial gains to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
