Fraud Alert: In a distressing incident, a 58-year-old college professor fell victim to a fraudulent scheme, losing Rs 1 lakh to a con artist posing as a police inspector. The scam unfolded on a regular Tuesday afternoon while the professor was at her workplace in Juhu.
The Deceptive Call
During the lunch break, the professor received a call from an unknown number. The caller introduced himself as Police Inspector Vijay Kumar and delivered alarming news – her son had been detained in a legal case. Concerned and anxious, the professor attempted to contact her son immediately, but her efforts were futile as she couldn’t reach him.
The Scammer’s Scheme
Exploiting the professor’s vulnerability, the imposter instructed her to transfer Rs 1 lakh to designated accounts under the pretext of securing her son’s release. Fearful for her son’s safety, the professor complied with the demands and transferred the money as directed by the fraudsters.
The Threat and the Revelation
After receiving the money, the scammer threatened the professor with severe consequences if she dared to speak about the incident to anyone. However, upon realising that the story about her son’s detention was fabricated, the professor approached the Juhu police station to report the crime.
Staying Safe from Scams
This incident serves as a stark reminder for everyone to remain vigilant and cautious against such scams. Here are a few essential tips to safeguard yourself from falling prey to fraudulent schemes:
- Verify the Caller: Always cross-verify the identity of callers claiming to be from authoritative institutions like the police. Legitimate officers will provide official credentials and contact details for verification.
- Stay Calm and Assess: In moments of distress, it’s crucial to remain calm and assess the situation rationally. Verify the information independently before taking any actions or making financial transactions.
- Never Share Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information or financial details over the phone, especially with unfamiliar callers. Genuine authorities will never ask for sensitive information over the phone.
- Seek Assistance: If you receive suspicious calls or encounter any fraudulent activity, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from law enforcement authorities immediately. Prompt reporting can help prevent further victimization and aid in apprehending the perpetrators.
By staying vigilant and informed, we can collectively combat fraudulent activities and protect ourselves from falling victim to scams.