OLX Scammer with Multiple FIRs Arrested in ₹1.25 Crore Online Scam

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Varanasi Police Arrest Suspect Linked to ₹1.25 Crore in Cyber Fraud Cases

Law enforcement officials in Varanasi have apprehended a suspect believed to be responsible for orchestrating a complex web of cyber fraud schemes, resulting in estimated losses exceeding ₹1.25 crores.

Suspect Utilized Fake Listings on Online Marketplaces

The suspect, who has been linked to 73 separate complaints filed with the authorities (FIRs), allegedly employed a variety of tactics to deceive victims, including creating fake listings on online marketplaces like OLX. According to investigators, the suspect would pose as a seller on these platforms, advertising attractive deals on high-demand items such as air conditioners and electronic devices.

“The suspect would convince potential buyers to make advance payments, often via digital means, under the guise of purchasing the advertised products,” said an investigator.

However, once the payment was processed, communication with the buyer would either cease altogether or become severely delayed, leaving the victim without their purchased item and out of pocket.

Transactions Valued at Nearly ₹1.25 Crores

The suspected perpetrator is thought to have been actively engaged in this fraudulent activity since 2015, exploiting various online classified platforms to target victims across multiple states. In total, investigators believe the suspect orchestrated transactions valued at nearly ₹1.25 crores.

Use of multiple mobile phone numbers
Bank accounts
Digital payment channels
Gaming applications
Digital wallets

Ongoing Investigation

As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are reviewing transaction records and communication data linked to the alleged scam operation. Law enforcement officials are working to identify any potential accomplices who may have assisted in creating fake advertisements, managing bank accounts, or facilitating digital transactions associated with the operation.

Cybercrime Officials Issue Warning

In response to the growing threat of online scams, cybercrime officials have issued warnings advising users to exercise caution when engaging with unknown sellers on online marketplaces. Specifically, they urge consumers to verify the authenticity of products and the credibility of sellers before making any payments, and to refrain from sharing sensitive financial information or completing transactions outside of secure payment systems.