Cases Highlight Growing Concerns Over Cyber Fraud in the City
Pune residents have collectively lost ₹49 lakh in five separate cases of cyber fraud, shedding light on the escalating threat posed by online scams targeting unsuspecting individuals.
In the first reported case, the Chatuhshrungi police have initiated legal proceedings against a fraudster operating under the guise of Farida Laila Alexander, who deceived a 50-year-old victim in a task fraud scheme. The victim was enticed into a part-time job purportedly involving liking, reviewing, and subscribing to YouTube videos, resulting in a loss of ₹11.92 lakh on March 24.
Following this incident, four additional cases of cyber fraud have surfaced across various police jurisdictions in Pune.
In the second case, a 44-year-old resident of Kharadi filed a complaint with the Chandan Nagar police, detailing how unknown individuals approached him online and coerced him into joining a WhatsApp group. Subsequently, the victim was defrauded of ₹20.07 lakh in a task fraud scam spanning from March 13 to April 4 this year.
Similarly, a 26-year-old resident of Wagholi reported being duped of ₹8.08 lakh in a part-time task fraud case, prompting action by the Lonikand police.
In the fourth case, a 34-year-old professional residing in Green City Society, Handewadi, lodged a complaint with the Wanowrie police against two cyber criminals who swindled him of ₹5.03 lakh between December 2023 and January 2024.
Adding to the tally of victims, a 29-year-old resident approached the Mundhwa police, alleging a loss of ₹3.61 lakh in a task fraud scheme.
These incidents underscore the pervasive nature of cyber fraud in Pune, with fraudsters employing various tactics to exploit unsuspecting individuals. As technology continues to advance, it is imperative for residents to exercise caution and vigilance while engaging in online transactions and communications.
Authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly to prevent further financial losses and hold perpetrators accountable.
