In yet another case highlighting the rising trend of social media–based cyber frauds, a youth from Ghaziabad was duped of ₹1.90 lakh after he fell for an Instagram advertisement offering a brand-new iPhone at a discounted price. The incident took place in the Crossings Republik area, following which the victim’s family lodged a complaint, and the police have now initiated an investigation into the digital trail and associated accounts used in the fraud.
According to the police, the cybercriminals first gained the victim’s trust using WhatsApp communication, fake order IDs and manipulated screenshots showing the item was ready for dispatch. Gradually, the accused extracted multiple payments before sending a fraudulent verification link that granted them access to the victim’s banking details.
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Fraud Began with Instagram Advertisement
The complainant, Jasveer Singh, stated that his son Ashu Singh came across the misleading advertisement on Instagram on July 6. The post claimed that new iPhones were being sold at remarkably low prices and offered a WhatsApp contact for queries.
Once the conversation began, the scammers demanded a ₹1,000 “registration fee”. After the first payment, they insisted that another ₹6,200 was required for the supposed shipping process. Each time the victim asked for clarity, the scammers presented forged shipping details, confirming order movement through manipulated screenshots.
Phishing Link and OTP Triggered Unauthorized Transactions
A few hours later, Ashu received a link allegedly meant for “order confirmation and delivery tracking.” Upon clicking it, a 6-digit OTP was sent to his mobile number. Claiming it was required to verify his purchase, the fraudsters urged him to share it.
The moment the OTP was shared, multiple unauthorized transactions began from his bank account. The victim later told police that when he questioned the sudden withdrawals, the scammers threatened him and claimed his payment would be forfeited if he failed to cooperate.
Total Loss ₹1.90 Lakh; Money Routed to Multiple Accounts
By the time the family approached the bank and police, the entire sum had already been routed through multiple digital accounts, making recovery difficult.
The Crossings Republik police have registered a case under provisions of the IT Act and cheating sections of IPC. The Cyber Cell is now tracing the digital trail, including the payment gateway used, virtual numbers, and the domain hosting the fraudulent link.
Spike in Online Gadget Sale Scams
Cyber officials noted that the case is part of a growing pattern of frauds involving fake advertisements on Instagram, Facebook, OLX, and Telegram. These scams typically target buyers seeking discounted electronics, especially premium smartphones.
Officials claim scammers often operate using VPNs, mule bank accounts, cryptocurrency wallets and fast-transfer payment apps, making the trail complex.
Police Advisory
Authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid instant trust in online discounted deals.
Key precautions shared include:
- Verify profiles and never trust unrealistic offers
- Avoid clicking unknown links or sharing OTPs
- Make payments only after physical verification of the product
A senior police official warned:
“One wrong click is enough to drain an entire bank account. Online deals must be approached with caution.”
