Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (TP)

Kundapur, June 17: A software engineer from Shiriyar village has reportedly lost a total of Rs 28,01,095 in an online job scam.

The complainant, Shashidhar (31), a resident of Shiriyar village in Brahmavar and a software engineer by profession, was working from home for a private company in Bengaluru for the past 15 days. On May 29, he received a message on his mobile phone related to submitting a resume on Google. Upon clicking the link, he was redirected to a Telegram application where an individual named Sharmai Rani contacted him.

Sharmai Rani added Shashidhar to a Telegram group named Kings Digilux Private Limited, where he was assigned online tasks. Initially, the complainant completed some tasks and received payment in return, which built his trust in the group.

Later, the accused provided several bank account details and instructed him to perform more tasks and make payments. Believing the instructions to be genuine, Shashidhar made multiple payments between May 30 and June 12. He transferred Rs 7,93,095 through UPI transactions and Rs 20,08,000 via IMPS and ITGRS transfers, totalling Rs 28,01,095.

The accused had promised double returns upon task completion, but after receiving the payments, they ceased contact, effectively cheating the complainant.

A case has been registered at Kota police station and is under investigation.

How to stay safe

Vigilance is the key to avoiding such scams. If you receive such calls, never fall for the trap. Remember, police officials never initiate cases online or ask for money.

Most importantly, the term “digital arrest” is fabricated by scammers and does not exist in Indian law. If someone threatens you with it, it is undoubtedly a scam.

Additionally, never share bank details, OTPs, or other sensitive information over phone calls or messages, regardless of the caller’s claims. If you suspect a scam, report it to the authorities and your bank immediately. Quick action can help prevent further losses.