Fraud Alert: Selling on online marketplaces like OLX and Quikr offers convenience and quick deals, but lurking in the shadows are cunning scammers looking to exploit unsuspecting sellers. A recent scam, targeting sellers specifically, involves impersonating government officials to steal their hard-earned money. Let’s delve into this deceptive tactic and equip you with the knowledge to stay safe online.
The Bureaucratic Impersonation
The scam begins with a seemingly genuine contact. The perpetrator, posing as a government official interested in your product, initiates a conversation. They might claim to be from various departments, like taxation, customs, or even the military. The initial interaction feels normal, building trust as they negotiate a price for your item.
The Virtual Agreement
Once the seller and fraudster agree on the product and its price, the scam takes an unexpected turn. The fraudster, citing a remote assignment in an inaccessible area, claims their inability to make a physical appearance or pay in cash. Leveraging the perceived trust associated with government affiliations, such as the Indian Army, the scammer insists on using online payment apps like Paytm or Google Pay.
The Illusion of Payment
The plot thickens as the fraudster sends a concocted screenshot to the seller, falsely indicating that the agreed-upon amount has been transferred. However, the seller soon realizes that no funds have actually been received. Unfazed, the fraudster proceeds to the next phase of the con.
The QR Code Trap
Claiming a mistake, the scammer guides the victim through a process involving a QR code, purportedly for receiving the payment. Unfortunately, the unsuspecting seller falls for the ruse, scanning the QR code and entering their UPI Pin, inadvertently paying the fraudster instead of receiving funds.
The Double-Edged Refund Request
As panic sets in, the victim requests a refund. Exploiting this opportunity, the fraudster asserts that a new QR code, this time for twice the amount, will rectify the error. If the victim succumbs to this ploy, the scammer walks away with triple the intended sum. These fraudsters repeat this cycle, leaving victims with significant financial losses.
Guarding Against the Scam
To shield yourself from falling prey to such scams, vigilance is paramount. Avoid transactions with individuals claiming to be in inaccessible locations or using unusual payment methods. Always verify payments directly through your chosen payment app before proceeding with any transactions.
What to Do if You Become a Victim
- Gather evidence: Screenshot conversations, fake screenshots, and QR codes the scammer sent.
- Report the scam: Report to the platform where you were contacted and file a police complaint online or at your nearest station.
- Contact your bank: Inform your bank about the scam and see if they can help recover any lost funds.
- Reach out to Cyber Crime: File a complaint with your cyber crime department using their official website.
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