Mangaluru man loses over Rs 16 lakh after being added to a WhatsApp group: Here’s what happened

Imagine being added to a WhatsApp group out of the blue and, soon after, finding yourself stuck in a financial nightmare. This is exactly what happened to a man in Mangaluru, who ended up losing Rs 16.9 lakh after falling prey to a cunning scam. This case highlights how social media platforms can sometimes lead to costly consequences if one isn’t cautious.

The victim was added to a WhatsApp group by an unknown individual. This person lured him with promises of lucrative returns on share market investments. The fraudsters sent a link to the man, claiming it would help him invest in the share market. Trusting the link, he downloaded an app as instructed by the accused, reports TOI.

Over the period of time, the complainant transferred Rs 16.9 lakh to the bank accounts of the fraudsters. It was only when he tried to withdraw the money but failed that the alarm bells rang. 

This shocking incident serves as a stark reminder about the risks of trusting unknown links and promises online. Scammers are experts at targeting unsuspecting individuals by exploiting trust and promises of financial returns.

Also read: Mysore individual loses Rs 4.7 lakh after call about illegal SIM card use: Here’s what happened

How to protect yourself from such scams

• Be cautious of unknown links: Always think twice before clicking on links shared by unknown individuals or groups. These links may lead to harmful apps or websites.
• Avoid unverified investments: Promises of high returns with minimal risk are often too good to be true. If an offer sounds overly lucrative, it probably is.
• Research before downloading apps: Scammers use apps to siphon money from unsuspecting victims. Always ensure the app is verified and safe.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Protect your bank accounts and financial apps by enabling added security features like two-factor authentication.
• Report suspicious activities: If you notice anything suspicious online or on WhatsApp, report it to the platform or local police.

Also read: Scrolling Instagram reels costs Mumbai woman Rs 6.37 lakh, here’s how

This case is a wake-up call for all internet users. Staying alert and cautious can go a long way in preventing financial scams.