A Telegram-based cyber fraud network in Assam is drawing hundreds of people into online task and investment scams, with losses reportedly running into crores of rupees. Investigators say victims are first lured with small payments for simple digital tasks before being pushed into larger investment schemes and fraudulent payment chains.
Small Payments Used to Build Trust
According to investigators, the scam begins with online tasks such as liking videos, posting reviews or rating services. Victims are paid small amounts, usually around ₹100 to ₹150, to create confidence in the platform.
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Once trust is established, users are introduced to task investment plans, crypto return offers or high-profit trading schemes. As the amount invested rises, fraudsters begin demanding further payments under labels such as unlock fees, GST charges, withdrawal taxes and processing fees.
In several cases, victims continue paying in the hope of recovering their earlier investments. Investigators say this pattern shows a coordinated digital fraud system rather than isolated incidents.
Mule Accounts and KYC Misuse Under Scanner
Investigators have found that Telegram’s open structure, large groups, fake profiles and temporary channels make such scams difficult to track. Several networks are suspected to be operating across multiple states and even from international locations.
In one serious case, women’s KYC documents were allegedly collected in the name of fake training schemes and later used to open mule bank accounts. These accounts were reportedly used to route and layer fraudulent transactions before money was withdrawn.
The misuse of documents has raised concern that unemployed youth and economically vulnerable people may unknowingly become part of wider cybercrime networks.
Experts Warn Against Quick-Profit Schemes
Cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Professor Triveni Singh said criminals in Telegram-based frauds first build trust and then psychologically manipulate victims into transferring larger sums. He described it as a planned strategy.
Digital fraud experts said such networks often use virtual numbers, foreign servers and encrypted communication channels, making identification difficult. They also noted that fraudsters are expanding beyond cities into smaller towns and rural areas.
Authorities have advised citizens to avoid unknown Telegram or WhatsApp groups offering quick returns, online task payments or investment profits. Experts said suspicious links, get-rich-quick claims and demands for release fees or verification charges should be treated as warning signs. Awareness, vigilance and quick reporting remain key safeguards against such frauds.
