In recent months, Indian citizens have faced a wave of sophisticated online scams, often targeting vulnerable individuals by exploiting trust through deceitful tactics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently highlighted the prevalence of these scams in his “Mann Ki Baat” address, noting the urgency of addressing this cyber threat.

1. TRADING SCAM

How it Works:

• Fraudsters promote fake trading tips on social media, often using images of well-known stock market experts to lure victims.
• Victims are invited to join groups on WhatsApp or Telegram, where they receive investment “tips.”
• Over time, they are urged to install unregistered trading apps, purportedly for “huge” profits.

The Scam Mechanics:

• Victims are directed to deposit funds into specified bank accounts to “buy shares.”
• They see fake profits in their digital wallets but face restrictions on withdrawals until their balance reaches a high threshold, such as Rs 30-50 lakh.
• Additionally, they may be asked to pay “taxes” on the fake profits to continue accessing these investments.

2. DIGITAL ARREST SCAM

How it Works:

• Potential victims receive a phone call warning that they are linked to illegal activities (such as drugs or fake passports) due to a suspicious package.
• Criminals posing as law enforcement agents engage the victims over video calls, appearing in uniforms and simulated official settings.

The Scam Mechanics:

• Victims are threatened with digital “arrest” unless they pay a certain amount for “case closure.”
• The scammers might insist that the victims stay visible on video until payment is made, maintaining a sense of urgency and intimidation.

3. INVESTMENT SCAM (TASK-BASED)

How it Works:

• Victims receive a WhatsApp message from an overseas number, offering a work-from-home task that pays well, often up to Rs 30,000.
• Initial tasks involve boosting social media ratings, for which the victims receive a small payment.

The Scam Mechanics:

• After completing basic tasks, victims are asked to participate in a “pre-paid” or “merchant” task, where a larger investment is required.
• If they proceed, they’re later told their “performance score” is insufficient and must continue doing new tasks to receive their promised earnings.
• Victims who refuse to invest further are typically blocked, losing any chance to recover the funds they initially invested.

4. ROMANCE/DATING SCAM

How it Works:

• Victims, usually men, are contacted online by people posing as foreign women interested in relationships or marriage.
• Once trust is established, the scammer expresses intentions to visit the victim but claims to face unexpected detainment at the airport.

The Scam Mechanics:

• Victims are asked to send money to help the “woman” resolve her detainment and continue their relationship.
• These scammers typically operate on dating and social media platforms, crafting elaborate profiles to gain the victim’s trust, and then manipulating them emotionally to send financial aid.