WhatsApp Task Scam Exposed in Delhi: 5 Arrests Made
Cyber Fraud Racket Busted: Delhi Resident Loses Over ₹1 Lakh to Task-Based Scam
A complex cyber fraud racket operating through task and investment scams has been uncovered in the national capital, resulting in the arrest of five accused from Uttarakhand.
According to Prof. Triveni Singh, “Cyber criminals are increasingly using social engineering techniques to exploit trust. Task-based scams are designed to psychologically manipulate victims by offering initial gains, which makes them more likely to invest larger amounts later.”
The Case Unfolds
- A resident of New Ashok Nagar was added to a group on April 6, which claimed to offer digital marketing services and promised lucrative returns through online tasks.
- The victim was initially given small incentives to gain trust but eventually lost a significant amount after the scammers stopped responding.
Investigation Reveals Mule Bank Accounts
- Investigations revealed that the victim’s money was routed through bank accounts operated in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, which served as mule accounts to layer and transfer the stolen funds.
- A team of investigators conducted coordinated operations in Uttarakhand and arrested five accused, including Raj Bachhar, Sameer Bachhar, Rohit Ray, Rohit Mistri, and Harish Sarkar.
Rise of Task-Based Scams
- Experts warn that task-based scams have seen a sharp rise in recent months, particularly through messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram.
- Fraudsters often lure victims with simple online tasks such as liking products, reviewing items, or subscribing to channels, gradually convincing them to invest money with promises of high and quick returns.
Warning to the Public
Officials have urged the public to remain cautious while dealing with unknown online investment opportunities and to verify the authenticity of any platform before transferring money.
